Patients Demand Full Operation of Emergency and Maternity Ward in Portimão

Concerned residents and nurses gathered outside the Portimão hospital in Portugal, protesting the frequent closures of vital services, including the maternity ward and pediatric emergency room. The demonstration, organized by the Portimão National Health Service (SNS) user committee, highlights the struggles faced by expectant mothers who have to travel to Faro, a 1-hour drive, for essential healthcare. Participants voiced their concern over the lack of investment in healthcare and the impact it has on the region’s healthcare system, urging for immediate action to address the issue.