The population that needs care the most is the least monitored

A recent study revealed that nearly half of respondents in Portugal fall into a vulnerable health profile, characterized by poor health perception and greater disease burden. Conducted by the Ordem dos Médicos, the research identified three distinct health profiles: Vulnerable, Episodic, and Integrated. The Vulnerable group, comprising 48% of participants, struggles with continuity of care despite high health needs. In contrast, 18% belong to the Integrated profile, enjoying better health and access to services. The study also highlighted contrasting experiences in accessing healthcare, with 40% finding it easy within the public system, while 63.5% felt the same about private services. Recommendations include tailoring health policies to social realities and addressing public perceptions of healthcare access.