Health Minister Calls for Urgent Structural Change in Portugal's National Health Service

Minister's Call for Change

The Minister of Health, Ana Paula Martins, emphasized the urgent need for a "structural change" in the National Health Service (SNS), starting now and extending into the next legislative term. She highlighted the importance of dialogue in this process. "Much has been achieved, but there is still a lot to be done. We must create a new SNS that adapts to these changes, maintaining the core values of humanism, personalization, and professionalism," she stated.

Efficiency and Solidarity

During the ceremony marking 45 years of SNS in Coimbra, Martins advocated for a "more efficient, yet always more supportive" SNS. She firmly believes that to sustain and enhance the SNS, discussions about its renewal are essential. "This change must start now, but it needs to extend beyond a single legislative term," she underlined.

A New Approach to Health

Martins pointed out that this structural change cannot be limited to temporary discussions or superficial issues. It should focus on what unites people and political parties rather than what divides them. She criticized those who demand immediate results without having contributed to the necessary changes, stating, "We need to respond to acute illnesses and the needs of our patients to improve everyone's quality of life."

Health Promotion and Digital Transformation

The Minister also stressed the importance of preventive measures and promoting healthy lifestyles. After the ceremony, she mentioned that the concept of "change" reflects the evolving expectations of professionals and citizens in the 21st century.

Martins highlighted the need to maintain the constitutional values of SNS while adapting to today’s realities. She noted that other national health systems are undergoing similar transformations. “We must leverage digital tools that we didn't have in the past,” she said, advocating for increased digital transformation in the SNS to better serve the aging population.

Bridging the Digital Divide

When asked about access to new technologies for the elderly, Martins explained that the Ministry of Health is developing many telemonitoring tools specifically for Portugal's older population. “We need to use digital technology positively and intelligently to connect with those who need us,” she concluded.

The event featured a talk by former Health Minister Maria de Belém Roseira, attended by Ana Paula Martins, national and regional health officials, and family members of António Arnaut.