Portugal's Palliative Care Progress Hindered by Access Inequality
Portugal has made strides in palliative care with the Basic Law on Palliative Care (2012) and Decree-Law 52/2022, but access remains unequal. The National Palliative Care Network (RNCP) falls short, reaching less than half of the population. Working conditions for palliative care teams are subpar, according to the National Federation of Doctors (FNAM).
The aging population and rising prevalence of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions have increased demand for palliative care. However, the distribution of Palliative Care Units (PCUs) is uneven, with 77% concentrated in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region. This leaves many patients, such as the 12% living over an hour from their PCU, struggling to access care.
Health professionals voice concerns about lack of investment and career enhancement in palliative care. The Portuguese Association of Palliative Care laments that access is determined by 'postal code', deeming it 'inhuman and unfair'. In 2023, nearly half of patients referred to private or social sector PCUs died waiting for a bed. Some patients resort to moving in with family or friends to access community palliative care.
Despite Portugal's progress in palliative care, access remains unequal, with working conditions for professionals needing improvement. The government must address these issues to ensure universal access to palliative care, regardless of location or socio-economic status.
