In the realm of social policy, merely implementing measures or making sporadic resource investments is insufficient if they do not achieve a tangible impact on citizens' lives. In La Palma, this premise is particularly relevant in the sensitive process of disability assessment, where the current reality falls short of generated expectations.
A few months ago, the training of professionals from the Cabildo de La Palma was optimistically announced, with the aim of expediting assessments and providing stability to the system. Although the initiative was perceived as a positive step to strengthen administrative response capacity, the current situation reveals a gap between training and operational effectiveness.
The reality is that training personnel does not equate to having a consolidated, coordinated, and fully functional team. Currently, the island lacks a system that ensures continuity in assessments, leading to uncertainty and delays in a crucial procedure for numerous families.
Disability assessment is not just another administrative procedure. It is the gateway to fundamental rights such as benefits, support, social resources, or socio-health care. Delaying these processes practically limits people's access to those rights.
This problem is exacerbated by the fact that, until recently, there was a collaboration agreement that allowed for a permanent assessment team. Despite its potential shortcomings, this system provided an operational structure that met the existing needs on the island.
The fundamental question now is how the work of trained professionals will be integrated if there is no solid team structure to guarantee service continuity. Without adequate organization, the effort invested in training loses its effectiveness and does not translate into real improvements for citizens.
Behind every file are individuals who cannot afford to wait, families who need certainty, and personal situations that demand agile responses from the administration. Therefore, it is imperative to move beyond announcements and strengthen the system with clear planning and a stable disability assessment team, equipped with the necessary resources and fully operational in La Palma.
