The Ministry of Health, through the Murcian Health Service (SMS), has signed a collaboration agreement with the "Piedras Vivas" social volunteer association in Cieza to carry out volunteer activities at the Lorenzo Guirao de Cieza Hospital, a referral center for the municipalities of Cieza, Abarán, and Blanca.
Thus, "Piedras Vivas" will carry out the "Contigo" project at the hospital to accompany hospitalized patients, especially those with disabilities, in order to facilitate rest and personal development for their families or caregivers. Specifically, volunteers will provide emotional support and guidance to the patient, entertainment, reading, and relaxation for family members.
For its part, the SMS supports the project for its usefulness and benefits to patients and caregivers.
Special attention will be paid to the homeless, the elderly, immigrants, and drug addicts who are unable to find companions during their stay. They will also care for people referred by the Foundation for the Guardianship and Judicial Defense of Adults of the Region of Murcia, as well as the elderly, disabled, or minors who lack family support, and women who are victims of gender-based violence.
The staff performing these tasks will be properly trained and selected by the volunteer coordinator of the "Piedras Vivas" association, who will work closely with the volunteer manager for Health Area IX.
The agreement is valid for four years, with the possibility of extension.
22,000 stays per year
The Cieza hospital records nearly 3,500 admissions and more than 22,000 stays per year, in addition to approximately 36,800 emergency cases. It has 589 staff members, 121 of whom provide primary care services in the health centers under its jurisdiction.
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