ROTA, Spain (June 23, 2025) — In an era of increasingly complex global health and security challenges, strategic partnerships between military and civilian healthcare systems are no longer optional, they are essential. This reality was at the heart of a recent engagement between leadership from U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Rota and Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, one of southern Spain’s premier public medical centers.

Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, operated under the Andalusian Health Service (Servicio Andaluz de Salud), serves as a regional hub for complex care and advanced diagnostics. For U.S. military medical planners, it represents a key node in the extended care network that supports readiness for warfighters and dependents stationed throughout southwestern Spain.

“Our presence in Europe depends on more than just facilities, it depends on trusted relationships with host-nation partners. We work within their established systems, aligning closely to integrate in a seamless, responsive way that enables us to meet our mission effectively,” said Capt. Michael Mercado, Director of USNH Rota.


The dialogue between institutions focused on interoperability: how to streamline referrals, coordinate specialty care, and ensure language and procedural alignment during both routine and emergent situations. Additionally, the teams explored opportunities for simulation exercises and shared clinical education that would benefit both systems.

Mr. Jose Luis Guijarro, Managing Director of the Puerta del Mar – San Carlos University Hospital, underscored the value of sustained, bidirectional cooperation. “Our mission is to provide essential public health, but we recognize the broader regional role we play. Working closely with USNH Rota strengthens our own preparedness and deepens our ties with the international community.”

The engagement reflects a broader Defense Health Agency (DHA) objective in building sustainable partnerships with local and allied institutions to enhance collective readiness and resilience. In an environment where medical threats do not respect borders, the ability to operate fluidly within host-nation systems is a strategic advantage.

Whether coordinating emergency response, managing complex referrals, or sharing innovations in care delivery, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar and USNH Rota continue to model how allied cooperation in healthcare can advance both mission success and community well-being.

Strategically positioned on the Iberian Peninsula, the hospital plays a critical role in defending, restoring, and elevating the health of warfighters and their families. USNH Rota provides ready, reliable care to 8,400 service members and their families.

For more information on USNH Rota and its mission, visit www.rota.tricare.mil (http://www.rota.tricare.mil/).