Andorra Faces Doctor Shortages Amid Population Boom and Family Reunification Barriers

Andorra continues to grapple with shortages of medical professionals amid population growth, as the Col·legi Oficial de Metges stresses that family reunification barriers—compounded by salary competitiveness—deter talent from relocating.

Albert Dorca, president of the Col·legi de Metges, welcomed recent government moves by Health Minister Helena Mas to boost incentives but cautioned they represent only partial progress. Responding to the ministry's announcements, Dorca noted that Andorra has long needed more healthcare workers due to its expansion. "We've been saying for years that Andorra's growth requires more healthcare professionals," he said, highlighting competition from neighbouring countries also seeking doctors.

The ministry has adopted some college proposals, prioritising direct economic incentives tied to patient complexity or age, alongside updates to outdated medical procedure codes (known as K and Q nomenclatures). These revisions, long requested since early 2025, aim to enhance pay competitiveness after 15 years of stagnant purchasing power for doctors. Dorca explained that rising taxes, clinic costs, and better relative wages in Spain have eroded Andorra's appeal. "Doctors don't earn badly here, but we've lost competitiveness with those around us," he said.

Yet Dorca warned these steps fall short without addressing family reunification hurdles. Current salary thresholds often prevent doctors from bringing dependents, creating a key obstacle. "If you tell a doctor they can't bring their children with what they earn initially, they might not come," he said. The college suggests easing these limits for essential professions.

An April 13 editorial in *El Periòdic d'Andorra* echoed this, arguing that partial financial incentives alone cannot compete globally without supporting family life. Dorca added that broader needs—like research facilities—require time, making quick pay adjustments essential.

Separately, Dorca dismissed recent concerns over alleged over-medication at La Comella prison, stating the college has no knowledge of irregularities. Prescriptions come from an on-site doctor following standard protocols, with higher mental health needs possibly linked to incarceration rather than excess treatment.