Major Shake-Up: ULS of Alto Alentejo Management Dismissed Amidst Health Sector Reforms

Portalegre's Local Health Authority has undergone significant changes as the board of directors for the Local Health Unit (ULS) of Alto Alentejo has been dismissed, effective immediately, with practical implications starting in early 2025. On December 28, the mayor of Portalegre, Fermelinda Carvalho, confirmed the news, stating that a new board, led by Miguel Lopes, current Secretary-General of the Portuguese Association of Hospital Administrators, has been appointed.

Key Points:

• The dismissal was communicated to the previous board on Friday, with the new administration expected to face substantial challenges.
• Miguel Lopes brings extensive experience to the role, having previously worked at the local hospital.
• This management change is part of broader reforms within the National Health Service (SNS) aimed at improving health administration across the country.
• The board of directors for the ULS of Leiria and ULS of Lezíria were also dismissed recently, indicating a strategic overhaul within the health sector.
• The changes come as the mayor emphasizes the need for resolution of ongoing issues, including the construction of delayed health centers.

In a statement, the outgoing board expressed gratitude for their tenure, while the new leadership is anticipated to start work by next week. The mayor has high hopes for the new administration's ability to tackle pressing health care challenges in the region. The Ministry of Health has yet to respond regarding the recent changes, and the former president of ULS Alto Alentejo has not made any public comments on the matter.