Between January and August 2026, SNS patients spent over €650 million out-of-pocket on medicines, a 2.4% increase from the same period in 2025. During that same timeframe, the state spent €1,338.5 million subsidising outpatient medication, while generic medicine market share fell slightly to 50.6%.
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The IPO Porto hospital has lost six anesthesiologists in recent months, leading to a staffing shortage. To manage the workload, the hospital implemented a new consultation model on 14 September, reducing appointment slots to 20 minutes, a move strongly opposed by the majority of the service's doctors who argue it compromises patient safety.
The Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro (LPCC) is holding its annual fundraising collection across the country from Thursday 29 October until Sunday 1 November. Over 21,600 identified volunteers will be present in public spaces, commercial areas, and churches, with the option to donate via the organization's website.
Violence against doctors and nurses has increased by 300% over the last five years. In response, the Ministry of Health and hospitals are installing more panic buttons and providing defensive training for staff, with a meeting scheduled for the week of 3 November to discuss further security measures across Local Health Units (ULSs).