The Minister of Health has acknowledged ongoing difficulties in reducing waiting lists for oncology and cardiology surgeries, with data showing over 209,000 patients awaiting procedures at the end of 2025. The Portuguese League Against Cancer (Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro or LPCC) reports that more than 21% of patients have exceeded their guaranteed maximum response time for care. Officials hope that new access systems will eventually alleviate these delays within the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde or SNS).
Oncology and cardiology waiting lists remain a critical concern
Monday, 11 May 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
The Portuguese League Against Cancer (Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro or LPCC) is a non-profit organization that provides support to cancer patients and their families. It works alongside the national health system to offer information, psychosocial support, and financial assistance to those navigating oncology treatments in Portugal.
ULS Alto Ave is the Alto Ave Local Health Unit (Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Ave), a public body that runs hospitals and some primary-care services for the Ave area in northern Portugal. It is part of the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde or SNS), and recent staff strikes have affected overtime and complementary work, so residents should check local hospital notices before visiting.
