Portugal's ACSS implements new online medical internship selection model

The Central Administration of the Health System (ACSS) has introduced a new online model for selecting medical internship positions in Portugal. This asynchronous digital platform replaces the previous requirement for candidates to appear in person at specific locations in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Funchal, and Ponta Delgada.

ACSS stated that the new system underwent technical and functional testing with input from doctors appointed by the Medical Association and the National Council of Medical Internships to ensure transparency. The administration described the change as a natural technological evolution that allows candidates to review choices over an extended period without the need for immediate, single-day decisions.

However, the transition has faced opposition. The National Association of Medical Students (ANEM) and the Northern Doctors Union (SMN) have criticized the model, with ANEM warning it could lead to higher rates of doctors abandoning their assigned positions. A public petition calling for transparency, equity, and justice in the selection process had gathered over 4,700 signatures by Friday evening.