With this purpose, the governing team has focused on the Socio-Health Center (POBA) in the Gipuzkoan town of Aretxabaleta. This model is a pioneer in Euskadi, integrating health, social, and community services in the same physical space under a shared work vision.
“"Our goal is not only to renovate a building, but to improve the care citizens receive."
The Aretxabaleta model, where the Osakidetza health center and municipal social services share the same building, allows for proactive and preventive care for people over 70. This facilitates the early identification of fragility situations such as fall risks, loneliness, or cognitive decline.
During the visit, the municipal representative had the opportunity to observe how multidimensional assessment is carried out and how an Individualized Socio-Health Care Plan is agreed upon with the person. This model, according to its proponents, avoids care gaps and attends to the person in their entirety, not just as a patient.
“"The Aretxabaleta experience shows us that it is possible to overcome institutional barriers to prioritize citizen well-being."
Upon her return, the mayor met with the heads of the Arrigorriaga health center to share the characteristics and impressions of the experience. The council aims to commit to a more humane, preventive, and coordinated model in the town to better address the challenges of aging.
