Somveïns Slams Paid TV at Meritxell Hospital as Unethical

Somveïns, the political party formed in mid-2024, has criticised the paid television service at Nostra Senyora de Meritxell Hospital as an unethical practice, particularly during the Christmas period, and called for its immediate restoration as a free offering for all patients.

In a statement released on Monday, the party highlighted the tiered pricing structure—€6.17 for one day, €14.39 for three days, or €30.84 for seven days—describing it as a hotel-style model that commercialises a basic service. They argued that charging for TV access undermines public healthcare principles by profiting from patients isolated due to involuntary hospital stays, especially when society promotes values like solidarity and generosity over the holidays.

The party, led by Xavier Surana, labelled the outsourced management "unethical" and demanded that Andorran Health Services (SAAS) end the arrangement, reinstate free access, and act swiftly. Somveïns also sought backing from Citizen's Ombudsman Xavier Cañada to ensure patients can watch TV without charge during their stays. They noted additional paid extensions to the service, urging authorities to address public dissatisfaction and "listen to neighbours."

No response from the hospital or SAAS was available as of Monday.