The Gaia/Espinho Local Health Unit (ULSGE) is joining the 'TIME4LUNG' project to test a new two-stage lung cancer screening model. This method uses a blood-based 'optomic' test first, with low-dose CT scans performed only on those who test positive, aiming to reduce costs and radiation exposure while increasing access.
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A pilot project called DECIDE-SCREEN will launch at the beginning of 2027 at the Alcântara Family Health Unit in Lisbon, sending digital decision aids by SMS or email to patients before their appointments. Coordinated by Value for Health CoLAB in partnership with NOVA Medical School and the Western Lisbon Local Health Unit, the 24-month initiative aims to help patients make informed choices about colorectal and cervical cancer screenings, addressing low uptake rates such as 50% for colorectal screening.
The DECIDE-SCREEN digital platform, developed by the NOVA Medical School and coordinated by VOH.CoLAB in partnership with ULS Lisboa Ocidental, is launching a two-year clinical pilot at a primary healthcare unit within ULS Lisboa Ocidental. It automatically identifies eligible individuals for specific cancer screenings and sends digital decision aids via SMS or email covering benefits, risks, and limitations. Initially, the project focuses on two screening tools: cervical cancer and colorectal cancer.
The Loures-Odivelas Local Health Unit (ULSLOD) and the National Association of Pharmacies (ANF) signed a protocol on Wednesday to create a formal referral circuit for patients who test positive for HIV, hepatitis B, or C at community pharmacies in the area. Under the FOCUS program, adults over 18 can take free, confidential, and anonymous rapid tests without an appointment at participating pharmacies in Amadora, Sintra, Odivelas, and Loures, with reactive results immediately routed to the public health service for confirmation and clinical follow-up.