Capital injections do not halt hospital debt, say administrators

The president of the Portuguese Association of Hospital Administrators stated that the recent financial boost of 1.538 billion euros for the National Health Service does not address the ongoing budgetary imbalances faced by local health units (ULS), which are expected to continue accumulating debt by 2027. He emphasized that the funding primarily serves to cover existing debts rather than resolve underlying financial issues. Rising costs for medications and human resources are not reflected in the funding provided, leading to continued financial strain on hospitals. The administrator criticized the government's reliance on extraordinary capital injections instead of ensuring adequate funding from the outset, which he believes perpetuates the cycle of debt. He advocates for a funding model based on actual healthcare costs and population needs, which could enhance efficiency and promote preventive health measures.