Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa Calls Álvaro Almeida's Appointment to SNS a 'Defensive Solution'

A Defensive Choice for Health Leadership

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has characterized the appointment of Álvaro Santos Almeida as the Executive Director of the National Health Service (SNS) as a "defensive solution" by the government. This decision follows the resignation of António Gandra d'Almeida.

Marcelo emphasized that this change reflects a concern for stability and a desire for a strong leadership transition in the health sector. He noted Almeida's political trust from the government and his background in health management, highlighting that he has previously served as a PSD deputy and is currently the director of a postgraduate program in Health Services Management. He also has experience as the president of the Health Regulatory Authority.

"This is clearly a defensive solution to ensure stabilization and a transition towards addressing future challenges," stated Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.

Acknowledgment of Past Challenges

The president pointed out that the management of the SNS has faced numerous issues thus far, recalling that the initial concept of the service was flawed from the start and took over a year to launch, by which time the original government had changed.

Investigation into Previous Leadership

Regarding the former director's resignation linked to allegations of irregularities during his time at INEM in Porto, Marcelo assured that the responsible entities would investigate the situation thoroughly.

On the day of Almeida's appointment, Health Minister Ana Paula Martins praised his knowledge and sensitivity in handling health matters.