Elvira Bisbe's First Year at Barcelona Medical Association Marked by Silence

The president of the COMB faces criticism for her low profile during a year of intense healthcare labor disputes.

Generic image of a stethoscope on a wooden desk in an institutional office.
IA

Generic image of a stethoscope on a wooden desk in an institutional office.

Doctor Elvira Bisbe has completed her first year as president of the Barcelona Medical Association (COMB) maintaining a discreet profile despite the ongoing crisis in Catalonia's healthcare system.

Since her election on February 22, 2025, Bisbe's leadership has been described as insufficient by sector sources. While medical professionals have been protesting for better conditions and addressing staff shortages, the COMB has remained largely neutral in the public sphere.
This approach contrasts with that of her predecessor, Jaume Padrós, who was known for being an influential and vocal figure. Some critics suggest the COMB is losing its prescriptive power compared to other institutions like the Barcelona Nursing College (COIB).

"We want more active involvement from the college and to intensify pressure on the Health Department from all fronts."

Ana Roca · President of Metges de Catalunya
While unions like UGT welcome the first female leader of the COMB, they urge her to use this opportunity to fight job insecurity. Bisbe took office after running unopposed in an election where her list was the only one available to voters.