The document, approved by the Consello da Xunta on November 2nd, is Galicia's first specific strategic plan in this area. It establishes a coordinated and personalized care model, covering from early childhood to adolescence and also including the transition to adult care. It has an estimated investment of 3,077,297 euros for the 2026-2030 period, with one million euros allocated for 2027.
The new structure will include pediatric palliative care units in the reference hospitals of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, and Vigo for the most complex cases, supported by multidisciplinary teams in each health area. It foresees the incorporation of 10 healthcare professionals (five pediatricians and five nurses), as well as the acquisition of vehicles, healthcare technology, and ultrasound devices for specialized and home care.
The plan ensures 24/7 continuity of care by coordinating pediatrics, various hospital specialties, primary care, Home Hospitalization, and the 061 emergency service. It also incorporates collaboration with social and community resources, patient associations, and educational centers, emphasizing home care with continuous clinical follow-up and the use of digital tools like video consultations and the TELEA platform.
The actions are organized around four strategic lines: identifying minors' needs, coordinating care resources, providing comprehensive care to patients and their families (including psychological and social support), and training professionals and caregivers. The 'Coidamos Contigo' program will offer temporary support to family caregivers.
Gómez Caamaño explained that Galicia already has specific pediatric palliative care teams in the university hospitals of A Coruña, Santiago, and Vigo, which will be consolidated and reinforced under a common organizational framework to develop a Galician network of pediatric palliative care. Furthermore, Galicia has a general palliative care network comprising seven adult hospital units and 43 non-specific resources, highlighting its high proportion of hospital-based teams.
