The study, which surveyed more than 400 people, demonstrates the difficulties faced by users in contacting the SNS, making appointments and obtaining information, with only 39% considering these processes easy.
Most Portuguese people say they don’t know where they should go in case of a medical emergency. The conclusions come from a survey that also reveals that hundreds of people have difficulty getting answers when they contact the National Health Service and, as a result, are losing trust.
It is a reflection of the state of the National Health Service (SNS). The Health System Performance and Impact Assessment Report reveals that only 47% of more than 400 respondents know exactly where to go in case of a medical emergency.
Respondents report having difficulties in getting a response when contacting the SNS and that there are many barriers to accessing information and immediate support.
This difficulty is felt not only in contact, but also in scheduling appointments, exams or treatments. Only 39% of users consider this process easy.
Oncology consultations and surgeries are another example. At this point, more than a third of Portuguese people have dual health coverage.
In view of the conclusions, the report warns of the SNS’s ineffective communication and highlights that health literacy must be reinforced.
