The College of Nurses of Catalonia (COIB) is urging the public to report instances of professional intrusion within the healthcare sector. Complaints typically originate from patients’ relatives, healthcare personnel within residences, external healthcare providers, and unions. The COIB website features a dedicated section for submitting such complaints, requiring data and a brief summary of the reported issue. Efforts are underway to create a more accessible link for reporting. Nurses are actively seeking public assistance in identifying and reporting intrusion, emphasizing the necessity of providing evidence to facilitate action.
Lázaro, a representative from the COIB, notes an increasing number of cases involving individuals practicing without proper accreditation. He acknowledges that these individuals often exhibit enthusiasm but are aware that practicing without homologation constitutes a criminal offense due to the lack of necessary degrees. These unqualified workers are frequently hired with lower salaries and inferior working conditions, and they lack liability insurance. While Lázaro states that the majority of residences operate exceptionally well,he stresses the importance of identifying those that hire individuals without the required qualifications.
The field of midwifery also generates a important number of complaints, primarily concerning individuals who lack the necessary training to provide accompaniment during pregnancy and childbirth. Lázaro warns that receiving guidance from untrained individuals during these critical periods can lead to severe consequences. He cites an instance where a home birth attended by two unqualified midwives resulted in the baby’s death and subsequent hospitalization. In this particular case, the mother filed a complaint, which led to a conviction this year.
In primary care settings, complaints of intrusion also involve technicians performing procedures for which they are not authorized without supervision, such as voltage or electros controls. Lázaro underscores the critical importance of reporting professional intrusion, as it directly impacts public health.
