Health Minister: hospitals in “very critical” condition
Portugal’s Health Minister said hospitals are in a “very critical” situation, as pressure builds on emergency services. At Amadora-Sintra Hospital, the head and deputy head of the emergency department resigned after unions reported a “critical incident” involving patient and staff safety, reportedly on a night with only one doctor on duty. For expats, this may mean longer A&E waits locally—consider calling Saúde 24, contacting your GP, or checking alternatives before heading to emergency care.
A ULS (Local Health Unit) is a regional structure that manages healthcare provision in a territory, often combining hospitals and primary care centres under one administration. In practice, it can affect staffing, referrals, and how resources are allocated across services.
