The North Health Area of Málaga has implemented the TurnoSAS system in the health centres of Antequera, Archidona, Campillos, and Alameda. The tool automates appointment management using the patient's ID and displays the order of calls on screens, improving privacy and reducing wait times.
The North Health Area of Málaga has taken another step in its digital transformation with the implementation of the TurnoSAS system in the health centres of Antequera, Archidona, Campillos, and Alameda. From now on, patients visiting these centres will be able to obtain an automatic appointment by identifying themselves with their ID at the installed devices, without the need to wait at the counter.
The tool, developed by the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), organises the flow of patients and directs them to the corresponding point of care. Additionally, it displays the order of calls on information screens, which helps to reduce waiting times and improves privacy by eliminating announcements over the PA system.
A system already in use in emergencies and mental health
The rollout of TurnoSAS is not new to the area. The process began in 2022 with its installation in the Emergency Service of Antequera Hospital, where it replaced traditional announcements over the PA system with alphanumeric codes. It was later extended to the Mental Health Unit and the Extrahospital Emergency Point.
According to SAS sources, the implementation in Primary Care health centres now completes the care circuit. "The tool facilitates a more efficient management of resources and simplifies the work of professionals," stated the agency, which also highlights the improvement in the patient experience.
How does the new system work for patients?
For residents of Antequera, Archidona, Campillos, and Alameda, the change is straightforward. Upon arriving at the health centre, they should go to the totem or designated device, enter their ID, and obtain a ticket with an appointment number. From there, the system automatically assigns them to the corresponding counter or consultation and displays their appointment on the screens.
This system prevents crowding at the counters and allows patients to wait seated, following the progress of their appointment in real time. "You no longer have to pay attention to the PA system, which sometimes isn't heard well. Now you see your number on the screen and know when it's your turn," explains a user from the Antequera health centre.
Another step in the digitalisation of healthcare in the province
The implementation of TurnoSAS in the North Health Area is part of the SAS's digitalisation strategy, which aims to extend this model to other healthcare centres in Andalusia. The goal is to improve care quality and efficiency, reducing waiting times and optimising human resources.
For the North Health Area, which serves a dispersed population in municipalities such as Antequera, Archidona, Campillos, and Alameda, digitalisation represents a significant advancement. "In rural areas, where travel is long, any improvement in the organisation of appointments and procedures is welcome," noted the area's management.
The system is already operational in all the mentioned centres, and patients can use it from day one. However, the SAS recommends bringing an ID to expedite the process and reminds that the system is complementary to prior appointments made by phone or online.
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