Andorra's Addictive Behaviours Unit Faces Staffing Crisis Amid 50% Patient Surge

The Social Democratic Party (PS) has criticised staffing shortages at Andorra's Addictive Behaviours Unit (UCA), pointing to a patient-to-professional ratio that has climbed from 73 to 88 as cases rose 50.8%—an increase of 296 patients—over five years, while staff numbers grew by only two, or 25%.

During a General Council oversight session, PS deputy group president Pere Baró highlighted the mismatch with the government's Mental Health and Addictions Plan (PISMA), citing data from ministry responses to written questions. He noted surging demand, including 18.2% high-risk substance use among 15- to 24-year-olds per national surveys—particularly among girls—and warned that inadequate planning and resources undermine emergency response, prevention, and policy development. Baró raised concerns from associations like Projecte Vida, such as patient "expulsions" after relapses, hours misaligned with social realities, and the absence of dedicated youth services. He argued that meeting seven-day response times does not offset the 20% rise in workload, which inevitably affects care quality, leaving patients and families to bear the cost of system failures.

Health Minister Helena Mas dismissed the remarks as alarmist, accusing Baró and "some association"—a clear reference to Projecte Vida—of eroding user trust through reports that harm the unit's image. She insisted the UCA operates correctly in line with PISMA, developed with local professionals and centred on individual recovery paths, despite a delayed start. Mas confirmed no short-term staff increases but outlined current options: external clinics open until 7pm twice weekly, a day hospital from 9am to 5pm, plus emergency and community support.

On relapses, Mas rejected claims of expulsions or abandonment, explaining that the day hospital's abstinence model requires temporary shifts to specialised resources tailored to the patient's clinical needs, safeguarding group therapy and overall continuity. She added that hours align with regional standards and that trained staff manage youth cases without needing a distinct area. In response to Carine Montaner, Mas pointed to a new mental health centre in La Seu d'Urgell, set to open in 2027, which will allow repatriation of Andorran patients currently treated abroad.