Oncological patients and their families at the University Hospital of La Ribera have publicly denounced the elimination of the specific psychological care service for cancer patients, a resource they consider essential and which disappeared between February and March of this year. The lack of this support generates a feeling of institutional abandonment at a critical time for those affected.

One of the affected patients, R.G., 53, expressed his frustration at finding the door closed when seeking help for his wife, recently diagnosed with breast cancer. According to his testimony, the oncology doctor herself confirmed the disappearance of the service, a decision that, according to hospital sources, responds to a new state regulation from the Ministry of Health that prevents centers from providing external services.

Instead of the hospital service, patients now receive a card with the phone number of the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Valencia. While acknowledging the entity's work, those affected consider it an insufficient substitute for a specialized service integrated into the hospital's care circuit. They denounce a possible dismantling of public healthcare.

Hospital sources indicate that the professionals are the same and that patients can be attended by the Mental Health psychology service at the center, which has increased its activity by 40%. However, patients and families report not being clearly informed of this alternative and believe that specialized psychological care in oncology cannot be diluted into a generalist service.

This situation is part of a context of recent cuts and deficiencies at La Ribera Hospital, such as the dismantling of the cardiac surgery service, described by the head of the service as an "absurd decision." Unions, workers, and the Alzira City Council rejected that measure, recalling the commitment to maintain the service portfolio intact after the reversion to public management. Chronic overcrowding and lack of parking worsen the general discontent.