The Portuguese healthcare system in an international perspective

This study conducts a comparative analysis of the Portuguese healthcare system in relation to international systems, aiming to assess its effectiveness and efficiency. The research addresses different dimensions of the system, including health determinants, performance, financing, human and material resources and the utilization, accessibility and quality of care. Based on comparable data, the analysis explores the main features of the health systems of countries with different models, including Spain, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Sweden, Australia and Israel, some of which are similar to the Portuguese system, while others adopt a differing approach. Portugal performs well in comparison to other countries, standing out for its high immunization rates, cancer screening coverage, and reduction in avoidable hospital admissions. However, only half of Portuguese citizens rate their health as good or very good. Although the Portuguese healthcare system ensures universal access, it faces increasing pressure, mainly due to population aging, a shortage of hospital beds, and gaps in the availability of certain healthcare professionals. These pressures have led to longer waiting lists and challenges in maintaining the overall quality of care. The findings highlight the need to adapt the Portuguese system to new demands, suggesting the incorporation of practices from more decentralized systems with greater private sector involvement, in order to strengthen sustainability and maintain high standards of service delivery.

Date of last update: 07/05/2025