Portugal diagnostic and therapeutic technicians strikes

Diagnostic and therapeutic technicians at the ULS Amadora-Sintra health unit in Portugal initiated a series of strikes starting in late September. Participation rates in several services reached between 80% and 100%. The National Union of Higher Health Technicians in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Areas (STSS) reported that while essential services like imaging, pharmacy, and clinical analysis are being maintained, the industrial action has had a significant impact.

The dispute centers on the application of the Collective Labor Agreement for State Business Sector (EPE) hospitals to technicians with individual employment contracts. Although a local agreement was reached with the Board of Directors, the Central Administration of the Health System (ACSS) issued a negative opinion regarding retroactive salary adjustments and career reconstitution, resulting in an impasse.

Following these actions, the STSS called for further strikes on November 19 and 20. Demands include a salary table revision, the regularization of owed retroactive payments, the hiring of more professionals, and the recognition of service time prior to the transition to the special career. Protesters planned to gather near the Prime Minister’s official residence in Lisbon. To mitigate the impact, minimum services are to be maintained for 24/7 facilities, oncology patients, and specific scheduled surgeries.