Doctors at the Anas Brotzu San Michele and Businco hospitals have declared a state of strike. After a long battle for wage equalization (the difference in performance-related pay is between €7,000 and €8,000 less per year than their colleagues at the Sardinian local health authorities), and after reaching the milestone of allocating funds for the rebalancing, they still haven't received the resources in their paychecks.
Almost a year has passed since the Regional Council approved the proposal, followed last July by the release of resources and even the scheduling of payments, but to date nothing has happened. The Cimo union denounces , "despite their ongoing professional commitment to a regional catchment area, the lack of response and the lack of attention paid to the medical directors of Arnas ." In a statement, it warns that " a pay gap compared to other regional health service providers is no longer tolerable ," and points out "the failure to implement the regional law that should have equalized the contractual funds of doctors and other professionals, which should guarantee correct remuneration, professional assignments, and the decentralized company contract."
These issues were addressed in a heated and well-attended union meeting in recent days, where it was decided to declare a state of strike action for the sector and to seek the Prefect's mediation to prevent a strike and more serious protests, possibly leading to the mass resignation of all professionals. " We are not asking for privileges, but for an act of justice . It is not a technical problem, but a political one: ensuring fair compensation for those who work every day to ensure high-quality care for citizens across the island," emphasized the Cimo union.
The Attack of the Reformers
"The Brotzu doctors' protest is more than justified, and I support it with strength and conviction. The resources for salary equalization have been available for some time, but they continue to be postponed. We need action, not more announcements." This was stated by regional councilor Umberto Ticca, leader of the Sardinian Reformers, commenting on the protests by healthcare workers at Arnas.
"We're talking about professionals who keep Sardinia's main hospital afloat, under difficult conditions and with lower salaries than their colleagues at other healthcare providers. After years of promises," continues the Reformists representative, "it's time for the Region to finally close the deal and guarantee equal economic dignity to those who work every day for the health of Sardinians."
"Reassurances aren't enough," he concludes. "We need clear timelines, concrete action, and respect for staff who have been waiting too long for what's rightfully theirs."