The Order of Physicians considered that the Global Reference Framework of the SNS for 2026-2028 "falls far short of the necessary ambition" to solve the problems of the Portuguese health system. The organization warned that the document does not adequately respond to the needs of doctors and users of the country.
The president of the Order of Physicians criticized the lack of investment and concrete measures in the document, considering that clear priorities for the valorization of health professionals were not defined. The Order argues that better conditions are needed to attract and retain doctors in the SNS.
The Global Reference Framework was presented by the Ministry of Health as a planning and coordination tool for the SNS for the coming years. However, the Order of Physicians argues that the document does not include the structural reforms that the health system needs.
The organization also warned about the risk of worsening the shortage of doctors in the SNS if urgent measures are not taken. The Order asked the government to review the document and include more ambitious proposals to guarantee the quality of healthcare in Portugal.
