Portugal's NHS struggles despite staff growth as waiting times worsen in 2024
The National Health Service (SNS) has faced fresh scrutiny over its performance in early 2024. While staff numbers grew, key indicators such as waiting times and appointment availability have worsened. Health Minister Ana Paula Martins insists the system is not failing but acknowledges rising pressures.
Official figures show the SNS employed more doctors and nurses at the start of 2024. Despite this, hospital appointments dropped by at least 19,000 compared to the same period last year, with first-time consultations hit hardest. Waiting times for both appointments and surgeries have also lengthened.
Martins has linked the decline in performance to a sharp rise in hospital admissions. She noted that healthcare professionals worked significantly more overtime in these months. However, she argued that overall indicators have improved since she took office. Addressing criticism, the minister dismissed claims of systemic failure. She cautioned that it remains too early to fully assess the SNS’s performance for 2024.
The SNS now faces the challenge of balancing increased staffing with growing demand. Longer waits and fewer appointments reflect ongoing strain, even as Martins highlights progress under her leadership. The coming months will determine whether these trends stabilise or worsen.
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