Pediatrician Reprimanded for Compassion, Sparks 24/7 Palliative Care Policy Change

A pediatrician in Barakaldo, Spain, was recently reprimanded for providing palliative care to a 4-year-old girl outside of his scheduled work hours. This act of compassion, however, sparked a significant debate about healthcare access and the needs of terminally ill children. The doctor, Jesús Sánchez Etxaniz, explained, "Death doesn't keep office hours." His statement reflects the urgent and often unpredictable nature of pediatric palliative care. The controversy led to the Basque health minister, Alberto Martínez Ruiz, announcing a policy change to provide 24/7 palliative care for children in complex cases. This decision is a direct result of the public outcry and the doctor's dedication to his patients. The change will undoubtedly improve the lives of countless families facing similar situations. This case underscores the importance of compassionate care and the need for healthcare systems to adapt to the unique challenges of pediatric palliative care.