Ordem dos Médicos proposes measures to retain doctors in rural Portugal

The Ordem dos Médicos (OM) has presented a study proposing structural solutions to address the difficulty of retaining doctors in low-density regions of Portugal. The organization criticized previous government responses as being ‘sporadic, temporary, and reactive’ to the shortage of medical professionals in rural areas.

The study, coordinated by president Carlos Cortes, identifies 11 specific areas facing these challenges: Açores, Beja, Bragança, Castelo Branco, Évora, Faro, Guarda, Madeira, Portalegre, Vila Real, and Viseu.

Key proposals include establishing protocols between the Ministry of Health and municipalities to provide ‘minimum material conditions’ for doctors and their families. This includes access to controlled-cost housing, municipal property rehabilitation, local tax benefits, and access to cultural and sports facilities. Additionally, the OM suggests creating partnerships to support the professional integration of spouses and establishing reserved spots for doctors in postgraduate training and internships within these interior regions.