The Sociedad Española de Médicos Generales y de Familia (SEMG) warns of a disproportionate additional burden on the health and social care system in Ceuta because of the current migration crisis. In a statement published on 21 August, the professional association expressed “particular concern” and offered to work with the relevant authorities. The recipients are the Colegio de Médicos de Ceuta, the Instituto Nacional de Gestión Sanitaria (INGESA) and the Consejería de Sanidad y Servicios Sociales of the city of Ceuta.
Specifically, SEMG is calling for closer coordination between health and social services, clear referral and transfer pathways, and additional staff and material resources to prevent overload in primary care, emergency departments and social facilities. Its aim is to ensure that social and humanitarian needs are addressed through coordinated care pathways, rather than being diverted into the medical system for lack of alternatives.
The warning comes amid a tense situation since early August 2026 on the border with Morocco, where Ceuta has recorded a high number of new arrivals. Local professional groups had already repeatedly warned of staff and infrastructure shortages. INGESA in turn reiterated in its own statements that it would ensure basic medical care in Ceuta and maintain emergency capacity in line with need; representatives of the medical profession, however, point to the need for short-term reinforcements on the ground.
Healthcare in Ceuta falls under the state provider INGESA, while the city’s municipal social services are also under pressure. SEMG proposes combining short-term operational measures – such as standardised triage, defined links between social and health services, and temporary increases in staffing – with structural improvements. In the association’s view, these include robust coordination mechanisms, reliable communication channels and targeted expansion of capacity where bottlenecks are emerging.
SEMG’s statement clearly distinguishes facts (rising demand and limited reserves) from assessments and demands (closer coordination, additional resources and clear responsibilities). It presents itself as an expert contribution to stabilising care in an exceptional situation that health and social services authorities must manage together.
Editor: Clara Simonichek (Article created with AI assistance).