New Guidelines for Obstetrics Emergencies in Lisbon: What You Need to Know

New Emergency Protocols for Pregnant Women in Lisbon

Women and pregnant individuals seeking treatment in the Gynecology-Obstetrics emergency rooms of the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region will only receive assistance if they have been previously referred (notably by the SNS 24 hotline) or if they are in a life-threatening situation. This is outlined in a decree signed by the Minister of Health, published recently in the Diário da República.

Key Changes to Emergency Access

The Ministry of Health emphasizes the need for prior phone contact with the SNS 24 hotline before attending emergencies, except in cases of life-threatening conditions. This measure is part of a pilot project to be implemented in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region, with plans for national expansion after three months.

Implementation Date and Communication

Some hospitals in the area will begin enforcing these new rules on Monday, December 16. Notices will be posted at the emergency services stating: “Emergency with telephone pre-triage – Only urgent cases are attended – Please call before entering: 808 24 24 24.” The telephone assistance will be provided by a specialized nurse in Maternal and Obstetric Health.

Referral Process

After contacting the hotline, if the phone triage indicates a need for hospital emergency care, the woman will be attended by a gynecologist or obstetrician. Additionally, the obstetric emergency services will remain available for women referred by the Urgent Patient Guidance Center, health centers, or other healthcare institutions with clinical information signed by a qualified medical professional.

Exceptions and Further Guidance

Women who arrive at the emergency department in imminent life-threatening situations—such as loss of consciousness, seizures, severe respiratory difficulty, heavy bleeding, severe trauma, or intense pain—are exempt from the referral requirement. If a patient arrives without prior referral, the pilot project stipulates that they will be informed of the need to contact the SNS 24 hotline before admission. The Ministry of Health assures that a means to contact the SNS 24 will be available at the emergency entrance.

Should a patient refuse to call the SNS 24 hotline or if referral is not possible, the decree mandates that their registration at the emergency department must be ensured, followed by in-person triage. However, if they are assigned a blue or green wristband (indicating a non-urgent situation), they will be directed to an open consultation at the hospital or health centers, with care guaranteed within one business day.

Future Implementation Plans

There is currently no set date for the implementation of the new rules for gynecological and obstetric emergencies. According to the decree, the SNS Executive Board will determine the timeline for the pilot project. To comply with the new rules, hospitals are required to create open consultations with hours adaptable to demand and operational on all business days.