The long-awaited licensing rules for healthcare establishments have been officially published in Portugal.
After nearly a decade of anticipation, with APHP actively advocating for a resolution, this moment marks a significant milestone for several reasons:
Firstly, these rules are designed to ensure the quality and safety of healthcare services for all citizens. By establishing standardized requirements applicable to all institutions, citizens are the ultimate beneficiaries.
Secondly, these licensing rules reflect a recognized “need to simplify and clarify the proposed requirements and procedures, exempting providers from contextual costs that prove to be superfluous in relation to the quality and safety objectives that are intended to be pursued.” Transparency and accelerated investment will result in more access and greater capacity in healthcare.
Thirdly, these regulations mark the end of historical discrimination against healthcare operators. The rules apply uniformly to all healthcare providers, “regardless of their name, legal structure, or ownership”. This commitment to fairness promotes healthy competition and enhances overall efficiency in the healthcare sector.”
Article written by Oscar Gaspar, President of the Portuguese Association of Private Hospitals (APHP)
