Latest news and stories about patient care in technology in Portugal for expats and residents.
A revolution in cervical cancer diagnosis is imminent. There is an innovative approach to the Pap smear test that allows for faster and more accurate detection of cancer cells. The new method, developed with the participation of a Portuguese researcher, uses Artificial Intelligence and 3D technology.
Microsoft has unveiled Copilot Health, a tool that uses artificial intelligence to interpret medical data and information from smart devices, making it easier to prepare for appointments.
From HIV to hepatitis, as well as oncology, the winners of support for community initiatives and research were announced today in the 11th edition of the Gilead Génese Program, for which Expresso is a media partner.
Scientists are looking for volunteers to develop a method that could guide the choice of the most appropriate treatment, reducing time, the number of treatments, and the emotional impact on couples.
Lisbon hosted the URONEXT forum, where surgeons demonstrated the Renal Sutureless Device (RSD) technique. By using a 3D-printed, biocompatible haemostatic mould instead of traditional internal stitches, the procedure reduces trauma to healthy kidney tissue, improves recovery times, and protects long-term cardiovascular health.
Orthopaedic surgeons, urologists, and endocrinologists from Gaia Hospital are visiting health centres to provide consultations. This initiative enhances accessibility and reduces hospital overload.
Évora Hospital has become the first public institution in Portugal to implement an AI system called Genius Digital Imager for cervical cancer detection. This innovative technology enhances the accuracy of screening by using AI algorithms and high-resolution image analysis to identify precancerous and cancerous lesions. The system aims to improve healthcare in the Alentejo region by ensuring efficient and accurate diagnoses, while also emphasizing the importance of prevention in combating cervical cancer.
One month after storm Kristin, the Leiria hospital continues to grapple with the aftermath of the disaster, which saw 177 polytrauma patients flood the emergency department in just six hours. Healthcare professionals faced significant challenges, including a lack of communication and blocked roads, forcing patients to arrive in their own vehicles. As attention shifted from the storm's immediate impact, underlying issues in the healthcare system have resurfaced, highlighting ongoing chaos and the need for improved public safety policies.
An elderly woman tragically passed away in the emergency room of Gracia de Orta Hospital in Almada while waiting for medical attention after being triaged and moved to the clinical observation area.
James Park and Eric Friedman have launched Luffu, an AI tool that unifies health data to help parents and caregivers monitor the well-being of the household.
Technology will never replace the doctor, but it should free them from some routine and bureaucratic tasks, so they have more time with the patient.
A Portuguese project for a device to help people living with dementia maintain their independence is one of five finalists for the Longitude Dementia Prize, worth €1.15 million.
Despite repeated technical assessments, confirmed financial capacity and clear structural proposals, the SNS and INEM keep failing to deliver timely emergency responses. This analysis points to implementation gaps — weak governance, fragmented coordination between national and regional bodies, staffing shortages and poor resource allocation — rather than lack of solutions; the result is delayed care that harms patients (including expats) and undermines public wellbeing. Addressing the problem requires transparent accountability, an independent audit of operational bottlenecks, data-driven redistribution of resources and political commitment to implement already-defined reforms.
Admiral Gouveia e Melo has urged a change in health leadership, saying the Government should resign if it cannot resolve systemic problems in the healthcare system. He accuses the State of failing across the board, criticises missed deadlines for delivering results and calls for accountability and urgent action to protect patients and medical services. The remarks frame the crisis as a leadership and policy failure with direct implications for care delivery and public confidence.
Ten years ago, Garcia de Orta Hospital in Almada opened the first hospital-at-home unit. Today there are already 50 Local Health Units offering this service — a way of delivering healthcare to 400 patients receiving inpatient care outside the hospital.
In 2026, innovation will not be merely about implementing tools, but about ensuring they reinforce — and never replace — the relationship of trust between doctor and patient.
Artificial intelligence is already being used for cases of acute respiratory illness via the SNS24 helpline. The solution aims to increase response capacity and reduce the number of unanswered calls.
Patients will be able to perform audiometric tests at home using a system developed by researchers at the University of Coimbra. Oncological treatments with cisplatin are associated with irreversible hearing loss.
