Portuguese Prime Minister Costa Highlights Major Health Reform and Increased Investment in National Health Service

Portuguese Prime Minister Costa Highlights Major Health Reform and Increased Investment in National Health Service

Lisbon, Portugal – October 19, 2023: Primeiro-Ministro de Portugal, António Costa (@antoniocostapm), returned to regular debates in the Assembleia da República and reiterated that the ongoing reforms in the healthcare sector represent one of the most profound transformations of the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS Portugal) since its establishment. With the proposed Orçamento do Estado for 2024 (OE2024), there will be more funding, increased investment, and improved healthcare services for all.

Prime Minister Costa accentuated the significance of the health reform, emphasizing that it is instrumental in ensuring better access to healthcare for all citizens. “What we are undertaking in the healthcare sector is perhaps the most profound reform of SNS Portugal since its inception. With the proposed budget for 2024, we are allocating more resources to the health sector, enabling increased investment in infrastructure, technology, and better care services,” he stated.

The Prime Minister underlined the government’s commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services, addressing long-standing challenges, and ensuring that the SNS Portugal remains sustainable and resilient in the face of evolving healthcare demands.

As part of the proposed budget, measures have been introduced to support the recruitment of healthcare professionals, improve infrastructure, and enhance the digitalization of healthcare systems. These investments aim to increase the capacity of the healthcare system, reduce waiting times, and deliver more efficient and comprehensive care to patients.

Prime Minister Costa’s remarks highlight the government’s dedication to improving the overall accessibility and quality of healthcare services in Portugal. The reform, coupled with increased financial resources and strategic investments, aims to transform the healthcare landscape, ensuring that every citizen receives reliable and timely care.(*)