The National Institute of Medical Emergency (Instituto Nacional de Emergência Médica or INEM) is facing criticism over claims that some staff are operating emergency vehicles without updated driving training. Former officials also allege that a lack of investment and disputes over helicopter service contracts have compromised the quality of care. These internal conflicts led some candidates to refuse leadership roles within the agency last year. Those requiring emergency medical assistance should be aware of potential service delays during ongoing labor disputes.
Emergency services face training gaps and helicopter contract disputes
Thursday, 26 March 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
Minimum services (serviços mínimos) are the legally required basic services that must be maintained during a strike to protect public safety—in healthcare this typically covers emergency care, critical ambulance coverage and intensive care. They matter because the INEM workers' committee admitted that late or unclear communication about which teams would be available during the end-of-2024 strike may have reduced operational capacity and confused patients; as an expat, expect limited non-urgent care during strikes and check official updates or call 112 for true emergencies.
Sources (3)
- INEM: Professionals without updated driving courses are operating emergency vehiclesPúblico · 9:09pm, 26 Mar 2026
- Vítor Almeida: Misappropriation of INEM funds 'cost lives'Observador · 10:56pm, 26 Mar 2026
- Doctor says he refused to lead INEM due to lack of guarantees regarding emergency helicoptersRTP Notícias · 9:29pm, 26 Mar 2026
