Minister reappointed the administration of ULS Algarve in September after being assured that the situation in Portimão "was improving"

The Minister of Health, Ana Paula Martins, reconfirmed the administration of ULS Algarve despite ongoing issues in the Portimão emergency service. Reports from medical staff highlighted severe understaffing, with only two doctors available at times. The situation worsened over the summer, leading to the resignation of the service director, Daniel Nunez, who was replaced by João Coucelo. Coucelo raised concerns about resource shortages but received assurances from Tiago Botelho, the ULS president, that improvements would be made. However, conditions deteriorated further, culminating in the deaths of two elderly patients. Following these incidents, Botelho was dismissed by the minister, who acknowledged the urgent need for change in the emergency service. Investigations into the service's operations are ongoing, but there is still uncertainty regarding staffing solutions.