Users say quality of services and waiting times in SNS have worsened – News

User perception of the quality of services provided by the National Health Service (SNS) deteriorated in 2023 across most indicators, with waiting times worsening, but ease of scheduling and admission improving.

According to the Sustainable Health Index, developed by the NOVA Information Management School (NOVA-IMS), which will be presented on Tuesday, the perception of the quality of services and waiting times in health units remains the main weakness (reduced to 64.5). points) from SNS.

Another weakness, although improving, is ease of access to healthcare.

Health professionals and the quality of information provided by these professionals are the main strengths of the social networking system from the users’ point of view.

The index also suggests that priority areas for action in the NHS should be access to care and waiting times.

According to the index, the majority of Portuguese (74.1%) consider their current health status as “good” or “very good,” which is a higher percentage than that recorded in 2022.

Nearly half (49%) say their health condition negatively affects their quality of life, and 41% consider it makes it difficult for them to carry out daily tasks (personal and/or professional). One in three say their health condition makes getting around difficult and 38% say it causes anxiety, depression/pain or discomfort.

Overall, on a scale of 0 to 100, participants rated their current health status as 75.3. If the SNS contribution was removed from this value, the index would be only 65.9 points.