This distinction aims to recognise the task, reward the dedication and value the professional career and work of Spanish healthcare professionals. This recognition not only desires to award a series of experts because of their professional career in the assistance, teaching or researching areas; but also whoever embodies the humanitarian values of Medicine.

Carmen Fernández, director of Diario Médico, has highlighted that: “with this initiative this journal underlines the vocational service of Medicine professionals. In our 25th anniversary, instead of congratulating ourselves, we recognise our readers and their work by personifying them in 25 prominent doctors from all over Spain.

A hundred of pre-candidatures from all across the country were selected from all specialities, fields of study (assistance, teaching and research) and sectors (State and private) with the support of medical associations and Merck. They represent, as a whole, the quality of the Spanish Health Care System. 

In addition, Diario Médico was also assisted by its readers. Over 5000 professionals voted their favourite candidate in the webpage diariomedico.com so that 50 finalist were chosen for the last phase.

Finally, 25 people were chosen by a jury of specialists (Fernando Carballo, President of Facme; Joaquín Poch, President of the Real Academia Nacional de la Medicina; Carmen Fernández, Medical director of Merk in Spain and Javier Olave, former director of the journal) who voted the career, dedication and other contributions of the candidates.