The proposed law requires additional documentation from non-resident foreigners seeking access to the SNS, which critics argue could create inequalities in healthcare access.

Recent legislative proposals by the Chega party, PSD, and CDS-PP aim to restrict access to the National Health Service (SNS) for non-resident foreigners, allowing care only in emergencies or with payment.

These amendments to the Health Basic Law, approved by Parliament, have sparked significant backlash from healthcare professionals.

They argue that the amendments violate constitutional rights and international treaties, potentially worsening inequalities and overburdening emergency services.

In response, over 840 health professionals signed an open letter opposing these changes, asserting their commitment to provide care without discrimination.

Dr. André Almeida, a key promoter of the letter, highlighted that the law unjustly excludes contributing migrants and their families from essential healthcare, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children.

Statistical data shows that the non-resident population utilizing the SNS is minimal, and similar measures in other countries have led to negative public health outcomes, including increased mortality and contagious diseases.

Healthcare professionals assert that the SNS should not discriminate based on nationality, as this undermines the principles of equality and access to healthcare.

The healthcare community's protest reflects a broader debate on immigration policies in Portugal, particularly in light of workforce shortages in the sector.

Carlos Cortes, a prominent figure in the healthcare community, emphasized that public health is at risk if certain populations, especially undocumented migrants, are denied treatment.

Many migrants in Portugal face bureaucratic delays in regularizing their status, complicating their access to health services and making them more vulnerable.

The signatories of the letter accused the government of promoting inequalities and hindering the fight against communicable diseases, referencing a failed measure in France that faced significant opposition.