The Federação Nacional dos Médicos (Fnam) has begun formal negotiations with the Ministry of Health, starting with discussions on doctors' evaluation and career progression after a recently signed negotiating protocol. The meeting, scheduled at the Health Ministry, is presented by Fnam as seeking transparency, seriousness and a clear calendar for progress. Patients and SNS staff should expect further announcements on timetables or industrial action if talks stall, so keep appointments and local unit notices under review.