Portuguese medical students consider emigration due to working conditions

A study conducted by the National Association of Medical Students (ANEM) reveals that more than one in three medical students in Portugal are considering emigrating. The research, titled “Presente e Futuro I - A Visão dos Futuros Médicos,” surveyed approximately 700 students across 11 medical schools.

Key concerns cited by students include low salaries and precarious working conditions, particularly within the National Health Service (SNS). Nearly half of the respondents (49.8%) identified workload, overtime, and the need for better work-life balance as the most urgent issues requiring improvement. Additionally, 46.1% of students highlighted salary increases as a priority.

ANEM President Maria Fontão noted that the data underscores the need for incentives to attract doctors to specialties currently facing shortages. The study suggests that addressing professional development and working conditions is essential to retaining future healthcare professionals in the country.