Portugal created the new Centers for Medical and Psychological Evaluation (CAMP) through Ordinance No. 377/2026/1, of August 25, which came into effect on August 26, 2026. These structures, integrated into the Local Health Units (ULS), are intended for the conduct of medical, psychotechnical, and technical evaluations necessary to certify the physical, mental, and psychological fitness of citizens. The creation of CAMP was already foreseen in the Health Emergency and Transformation Plan, approved in 2024.
CAMP will now concentrate the issuance of physical and mental fitness certificates, covering situations such as obtaining and renewing driver's licenses for groups 1 and 2, hunting licenses, firearms possession and carrying permits, and the practice of nautical activities. The medical evaluation will include an individual clinical examination and analysis of the clinical information available about the applicant. However, the Multi-Purpose Medical Certificate of Disability (AMIM) is not included in this change and will continue to be requested at health centers.
Implementation of CAMP will not be automatic or simultaneous throughout the country. Each ULS must prepare a study identifying necessary professionals, equipment, facilities, and costs, after which a favorable opinion from the SNS executive director is required. Legislation acknowledges that a single CAMP may temporarily serve several geographically close ULS. The Portuguese Medical Association warned that the publication of legislation is only the first step and advocated for rapid operationalization, emphasizing that results will depend on the speed of implementation and the resources made available.
The main objective of this reorganization is to free primary health care from administrative tasks and provide a more specialized response to citizens who need these documents. The forms and administrative procedures are not altered by the creation of CAMP, continuing to follow the models provided for in applicable legislation. Those who need a certificate should confirm with their respective ULS whether a CAMP is already operational and what the applicable appointment procedure is in their area.
