Health Minister Ana Paula Martins has firmly denied allegations that the winter plan for the National Health Service (SNS) is failing. During a meeting in Lisbon with oncology patient associations, she emphasized that the contingency levels established by health units are clear and have been adhered to. Martins stated, “I cannot acknowledge in any way that the winter plan is failing.”
She explained that the Ministry of Health has issued guidelines that are largely being followed, highlighting the positive vaccination coverage against flu and COVID-19 this year. Furthermore, she pointed out the innovative approach of prescribing tests and examinations from nursing homes, which previously had not occurred, reducing the need for elderly patients to visit health centers and hospitals for tests.
In addition to these measures, the minister acknowledged the ongoing demand for beds in the National Network of Continuing Care and nursing homes, with new agreements being made to alleviate social cases from hospitals. However, she recognized that these issues cannot be resolved overnight.
Martins noted that a significant part of the current pressure on hospitals is also due to over a thousand patients who are hospitalized but should not be there.
The minister's comments come at a time when wait times in some emergency services are under scrutiny, illustrating the challenges facing the SNS during the winter months.
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