Portugal to Remove Users from Family Doctor Registry After Five Years of Inactivity to Ensure 'Good Management of Public Resources'

Portugal has initiated a new operational policy that will impact citizens' access to family doctors. Under this new system, individuals who have not utilized public health services, such as hospitals or health centers, within the last five years will be removed from their family doctor's registry.

This measure is being implemented with the stated goal of ensuring "good management of public resources." The Portuguese health authorities believe that by removing inactive users, they can better allocate resources and ensure that those actively using the system receive timely and efficient care.

The change directly affects individuals who have not sought medical attention through public healthcare channels in the past five years. Their removal from the registry means they will lose their assigned family doctor and may face challenges in re-registering or accessing primary care services in the future. The operation's launch signifies a significant shift in how the National Health Service (SNS) manages its patient base and public resources.

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good management of public resources