The Portuguese government has announced plans to bolster the country’s public health system by hiring 300 doctors from Cuba.
The Ministry of Health aims to address the gaps in the National Health Service (SNS) by recruiting these doctors for three years.
The necessary procedures to facilitate their integration into the public system are already underway, taking into account the required tests and qualifications, including proficiency in Portuguese.
This is not the first time Portugal has sought the assistance of Cuban doctors. In 2009, 44 Cuban doctors were welcomed to reinforce the public network in certain regions.
The current initiative is seen as complementary and temporary, to contribute to the adequate provision of human resources and enhance the response capacity of the SNS.
The Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Higher Education in this endeavor.
As of 2022, the Portuguese public health system had 1,270 foreign doctors, and the total number of foreign professionals registered with the College of Physicians was 4,503.
It is important to note that these recent developments occur amidst a two-day strike by Portuguese doctors demanding better pay and labor conditions.
The healthcare sector has faced significant challenges, particularly in emergency services, such as maternity and obstetrics, due to resource shortages.
The decision to hire Cuban doctors reflects Portugal’s efforts to address healthcare needs and strengthen its public health system.
By seeking assistance from abroad, the government aims to supplement its existing healthcare workforce and improve the overall provision of medical services.