Close to 190 health centers will operate on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day during additional hours, in order to “respond in a timely manner to cases of non-emergent acute disease”, announced the Ministry of Health.
On Saturday, December 30, 233 health centers will be open across the country. On Sunday, December 31st, 193 units will be in operation. On Monday, a public holiday and the first day of 2024, and on Tuesday, January 2, 187 health centers will be operational.
The measure is part of the Strategic Plan for the Seasonal Health Response – Winter 2023-2024, operationalized by the Groups of Health Centers and Regional Health Administrations, in conjunction with the Executive Directorate of the National Health Service (SNS).
«In the case of a non-emergent acute illness, the use of alternatives available to emergency services, such as health centers and SNS 24 digital services, contributes to reducing pressure on hospital emergency services, through care that can be provided at other points in the SNS”, highlights the Ministry.
In non-emergency situations, such as mild to moderate respiratory symptoms, “the population should contact SNS 24 – for advice and possible referral to the nearest health unit. In emergency situations, 112 should be contacted», he further explains.
«The appropriate use of health services allows a more timely response to patients, being fundamental for the better functioning and articulation of the network of SNS units, particularly in situations of increased demand».
The Ministry of Health also states that it recognizes «the commitment of health professionals, in a special way during this season, and wishes a new year, with health, for the entire population».
Click here to find out which Health Centers are available on the 30th and 31st of December, 1st and 2nd of January (tool developed by VOST PORTUGAL – Association of Digital Volunteers in Emergency Situations)
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