In 2024, 101 children aged between zero and six years with developmental disorders, disabilities, or dependencies received support
The Management of Health Services in the Fuerteventura Health Area, part of the Canary Islands’ Ministry of Health, has decorated the corridors of the Early Attention Unit (UAT) on the island, located within the General Hospital of Fuerteventura, with colourful child-themed motifs to create a more welcoming and enjoyable entry to this healthcare facility.
This mural, adorning the entrance to the UAT, was created by Dailos Felipe Paniagua and features imaginary characters that help make the wait more pleasant for the children using this service.
UAT of Fuerteventura
The UAT of Fuerteventura commenced operation in June 2021, providing specialised intervention for children aged zero to six who present developmental disorders, disabilities, or are at risk of these issues.
In 2024, a total of 101 children received assistance from this UAT, while between January and July 2025, 61 minors attended sessions.
The UAT team consists of an administrative assistant, a social worker, an educational advisor, a clinical psychologist, and four Early Attention therapists: two speech therapists, a physiotherapist, and an occupational therapist.
The professionals at the UAT of Fuerteventura also operate a mobile unit, travelling twice a week to the health centres in Gran Tarajal and Morro Jable. This initiative aims to make the service more accessible to those in need, reducing the need for travel for the children and their families or caregivers.
Interconsultations from Primary Care
The UAT of Fuerteventura was a pioneer in introducing direct Early Attention interconsultations from Primary Care, bypassing the previous requirement for all interconsultations to go through Hospital Care. This expedites the entry of minors into the UAT and reduces waiting times in the Rehabilitation, Mental Health, Phoniatrics, or Paediatrics services at the General Hospital of Fuerteventura.
Furthermore, this method ensures interventions are conducted not only with the child but also with their family, environment, and educational institution when necessary, following a personalised intervention plan from a multidisciplinary and humanising perspective.
The primary objective is to intervene early and effectively in addressing the developmental issues of children, encompassing physical, psychological, and social aspects. This service aims to meet their needs, regardless of their place of residence, thereby facilitating their well-being, improving their social and health conditions, and ensuring equity with the general population.
Addressing Developmental Disorders
Early Attention provides support to children aged zero to six with developmental disorders or those at risk, along with their families and contexts, to achieve the highest possible level of personal development and social integration.
Interventions in the early years of childhood can be crucial for preventing and addressing all potential needs, including cognitive, emotional, social, sensory, or motor challenges.
