Luís Cabral leaving. "There are more important roles for me"

Luís Cabral, president of INEM, suggests that the next leader should not be a doctor but a manager, emphasizing the need for effective budget management. He acknowledges ongoing challenges in response times for urgent cases and highlights efforts to modernize operations. Despite an increase in contracted ambulances, he rules out privatizing emergency services. Cabral admits a shortage of emergency technicians, particularly in Lisbon and Algarve, and advocates for raising fees to improve service quality. He defends INEM's actions during housing protests, stating safety was prioritized. A recent agreement with the emergency technicians' union ensures no reduction in operational resources, with plans to replace certain ambulances with lighter vehicles based on specific criteria.