Violence towards health staff has become alarmingly frequent. A stark incident occurred on 26 August at the Sant Antoni health centre in Ibiza. This article looks closely at this aggression, its fallout, and the wider safety context affecting Healthcare Worker Safety in Ibiza.

What Happened at Sant Antoni Centre?

On 26 August, two doctors at the Sant Antoni health centre were insulted and threatened by a Moroccan patient’s family. The security team asked them to leave, but the situation worsened outside. One doctor, followed by her sister who stepped in to help, faced physical aggression. Neither suffered serious injuries. The victims filed formal complaints afterwards, and the centre’s administration provided legal support and issued a formal warning to the aggressors.

Response and Protest Call

The medical union and the Official College of Physicians of the Balearic Islands condemned the incident as “intolerable” and called for solidarity. They organised a protest this Friday at 13:30 outside Sant Antoni centre. The Gerente of the Pitiusas Health Area, Enrique Garcerán, confirmed he will attend, showing institutional backing.

Broader Context of Aggression Against Staff

Aggressive acts against healthcare professionals are no longer isolated. In 2023, across the Balearic Islands, there were 1,365 reported assaults on staff. Of these, 140 occurred in Ibiza and Formentera alone. Compared to 2022, reported incidents rose by roughly 10 %. Many cases stem from frustrations over perceived poor care or long waiting times.

Security Measures and Systemic Solutions

Amid rising tensions, Ibiza health centres ramped up security. During the summer of 2025, Sant Antoni and Vila centres shifted to round‑the‑clock security, up from standard 12‑hour night shifts. While this helps deter aggression, a more comprehensive approach is essential to protect staff and uphold Healthcare Worker Safety in Ibiza.

Why This Matters

Protecting healthcare workers is not only a moral and legal imperative—it directly impacts public health. When staff feel unsafe, morale suffers, staff retention drops, and patient care may deteriorate. Boosting Healthcare Worker Safety in Ibiza ensures everyone benefits from a safer, more efficient care environment.

What Comes Next?

• Enforce permanent protective measures across all centres.
• Launch community campaigns highlighting respect for healthcare professionals.
• Ensure swift legal follow‑up on all aggression reports.
• Continually review safety procedures and staff training.

By strengthening Healthcare Worker Safety in Ibiza, we protect those who care for us.