Tomás Merina has been elected as the new president of the Madrid Medical College (Icomem), securing 47% of the votes.

His victory marks a shift from the previous leadership of Manuel Martínez-Sellés, criticized for alleged financial mismanagement and a lack of support for medical professionals.

Merina, an experienced doctor and former clinic manager, aims to rebuild trust and make the college more inclusive for all doctors, from trainees to retirees.

Voter turnout increased modestly to 18.4%, with expanded voting options, though some primary care doctors faced challenges in participating.

Merina has pledged to address long-standing issues such as poor working conditions, low pay, and overburdened schedules, which have driven many professionals to leave Madrid.

His leadership is seen as a chance for much-needed reform in a healthcare system under strain.