The former Vice Counselor of Health for Andalusia and former manager of the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), Miguel Ángel Guzmán, was planning to join the insurer Asisa on Monday. However, a report from the General Inspection of the Junta de Andalucía found that this move would violate the regulations on incompatibility of high-ranking officials. The report stated that the incompatibility ends on July 29th, which marks two years since Guzmán ceased his position as manager of the SAS. After this date, he would be able to work for the health insurer. Guzmán, who is now affiliated with the PP party, stated that he will comply with the law as always.
An Asisa spokesperson confirmed that they will reconsider hiring Guzmán after July 29th. They highlighted his knowledge of the healthcare system in Andalusia and his experience in both public administration and private companies as the reasons for proposing him as the director of Asisa in the region. The report from the Junta establishes that Guzmán’s incompatibility stems from contracts authorized during his time as the SAS manager with entities linked to Asisa. While Guzmán argued that he was not present during contract negotiations and that the hospitals managed by Asisa could be distinguished from the insurer, the law states a two-year restriction on activities for former high-ranking officials.
The Junta’s report limits Guzmán’s incompatibility to his time as SAS manager until July 2022, without extending it to his subsequent position as the regional government’s Vice Counselor of Health. The findings will be included in the investigation conducted by the Andalusian Office against Fraud and Corruption. Several parties have filed complaints regarding Guzmán’s potential incompatibility with his position at Asisa, prompting the need for further inquiry. The government of Andalusia considers the controversy resolved with the report’s conclusions.
Opposition parties have criticized the incompatibility regulations, with the leader of the Andalusian socialists, Juan Espadas, pointing out the potential conflict if Guzmán’s hiring at Asisa had not been publicized. The Justice Counselor Antonio Nieto announced plans to reform the incompatibility law, deeming it unjust to restrict ex-officials from private activities related to their previous responsibilities for two years. The law was previously modified in 2021 under the Moreno government, and efforts to strengthen protections against revolving doors have been introduced in the Parliament by the party Por Andalucía.
In summary, the involvement of Miguel Ángel Guzmán with Asisa has raised concerns about potential incompatibilities with his past roles in the Andalusian healthcare system. The Junta’s report highlights the need for strict adherence to incompatibility regulations to uphold transparency and prevent conflicts of interest. The decision to delay Guzmán’s incorporation to Asisa until after the incompatibility period ends shows a commitment to legal compliance. Efforts to reform the incompatibility law indicate a recognition of the need for clarity and fairness in regulating post-public service activities.
