“The government of Spain will protect all its citizens and will guarantee the right life conditions to slow the pandemic with as little inconvenience as possible,” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had said. In accordance with this Spain announced that all private hospitals and healthcare providers will be nationalised. This has come in response to the growing number of coronavirus cases. Spain has been one of the worst-hit countries with 11,178 cases and 491 deaths. This move will ensure that more tests can be done and more safety measures are put into place. Further, the government has declared a national state of emergency, citizens are allowed to venture out to only buy essentials, go to work, or go to the hospital.
It is important to note that governments across the globe have the capacity to make essentials free of cost and nationalising health and education sectors. It has taken an epidemic for these measures to be taken and basic human rights to be provided.
According to media reports, Health Minister Salvador Illa, announced the decision to nationalise hospitals and health care providers. Illa has said that health chiefs across the country will have all the means at their disposal, from the private sector, to deal with the epidemic. Illa also announced that fourth-year medical students will be required to contribute to help with the COVID-19 outbreak. Their residency contracts will be extended for the same. Physicians who have not completed their residencies can be hired if they have passed their tests after their residencies.
The government has also announced that there will be a postponement in paying off mortgage, and basic facilities like water, gas, and electricity will not be shut off due to non-payment, during the emergency.
It is important to note that governments across the globe have the capacity to make essentials free of cost and nationalising health and education sectors. It has taken an epidemic for these measures to be taken and basic human rights to be provided.
“It is important to note that governments across the globe have the capacity to make essentials free of cost and nationalising health and education sectors. It has taken an epidemic for these measures to be taken and basic human rights to be provided.” Yes, it’s called fiscal policy. Under normal circumstances it may not be advisable to provide essentials to everyone free of cost. In a crisis, it’s required.