2026 Conference Cycle | The NHS in 2025: Current Situation and Reflections for the Future

The Portuguese Public Finance Council, with the support of NOVA SBE, organised the conference “The National Health Service in 2025: Current situation and reflections for the future” on 29 June in Carcavelos, to coincide with the publication on that date of the report “NHS performance in 2025”.

At a decisive moment for the healthcare system in Portugal, this conference brought together leading experts to reflect on the main challenges facing the National Health Service (NHS), analysing its financial and care dimensions in an integrated manner.

Against a backdrop marked by an ageing population, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and the rapid evolution of health technologies and therapies – often associated with high costs – it is essential to discuss the sustainability of the NHS without compromising the fundamental principle of universal and equitable access to healthcare.

The conference presented recent evidence and relevant data on the functioning of the system, providing a clear overview of the main trends, pressures and opportunities facing the sector. The analysis was enriched by a panel of renowned experts from the fields of health, economics, management and public policy, who commented on and debated the results presented, contributing different perspectives and experiences.

Aimed at a wide audience – ranging from academics and healthcare professionals to decision-makers, students and interested members of the public – this initiative aimed to stimulate an informed and diverse debate, which is essential for developing sustainable and innovative solutions.

More than just a moment for reflection, this conference standed as a space for open dialogue on the present and future of the National Health Service (SNS), placing at the centre of the discussion the need to guarantee quality healthcare for all, today and for future generations.

This was the 9th conference in the series “The Portuguese Public Finance Council Invites to Debate”, launched in 2020, which aims to discuss some of the most relevant issues for the Portuguese economy and public finances.

More information here.

Date of last update: 30/06/2026