Moving to Portugal involves getting to know a new healthcare system.
In Portugal, family doctors are known as médicos de família and work within the public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). They provide primary healthcare, help manage ongoing health conditions and refer patients to specialists when necessary.
So, how does public healthcare works in Portugal? Here is what you need to know.
1. Understand How the Portuguese Healthcare System Works
The Portuguese public healthcare system is the SNS, which provides access to a range of medical services, including consultations, hospital care and primary healthcare through local health centres.
Your local health centre, known as a centro de saúde, is usually the first point of contact for routine medical care. It is where you can access general and family medicine, nursing services and other primary healthcare support.
2. Get Your SNS User Number
Before registering with a public health centre, you will need a Portuguese National Health Service user number, known as the número de utente do SNS.
This number identifies you within the public healthcare system and allows you to access relevant services.
3. Register at Your Local Health Centre
Once you have your SNS user number, the next step is to register at a health centre, preferably the one serving your residential area.
Registration is free and can be completed in person. However, registering with a health centre does not automatically guarantee that you will be assigned a family doctor immediately. Availability depends on the vacancies and resources in your local healthcare unit.
If you are unsure which health centre covers your address, you can contact SNS 24 for guidance.
4. What If You Cannot Find a Family Doctor?
One of the challenges some residents face is the lack of available family doctors in their area. However, this does not necessarily mean you cannot access public healthcare.
If you do not have an assigned family doctor, contact your health centre to find out which services and appointments are available, as you may be able to receive care from another healthcare professional.
You can also ask whether there is a waiting list for assignment to a family doctor and how you can check your registration status.
If you need medical guidance before obtaining a family doctor, SNS 24 can help you understand where to seek care.
5. How to Contact SNS 24
SNS 24 is Portugal’s health advice and triage service. It can help you understand which healthcare service to contact, provide guidance when you have symptoms and direct you to an appropriate service when necessary.
You can contact SNS 24 by calling 808 24 24 24 or by visiting the official SNS 24 website.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 112.
SNS 24 is particularly useful if you are new to Portugal and are unsure whether you should contact a health centre, visit a hospital or seek another type of medical assistance.
6. Check Your Healthcare Information Online
Once you are registered, you can use the SNS 24 website or app to access relevant personal healthcare information.
Depending on your registration and available services, you may be able to:
- Check whether you have an assigned family doctor
- View your healthcare information
- Book eligible appointments
- Access other digital SNS services
7. Is Private Healthcare an Alternative?
If you cannot obtain a family doctor through the SNS or prefer more flexibility when booking appointments, private healthcare may be an alternative.
Private clinics and hospitals offer consultations with general practitioners and specialists, often with shorter waiting times, although availability varies.
Before booking, check whether the provider accepts your health insurance, whether you need a referral and what costs you may have to pay.
Some residents use both public and private healthcare, depending on their needs and circumstances. The best option will depend on your healthcare requirements, budget and eligibility for public services.
At EasyRelocation, we understand that relocating involves much more than finding a property. From Portuguese documentation to setting up your new home, our team helps international residents navigate the practical steps of building a life in Portugal.
Get in touch with EasyRelocation to find out how we can help make your transition easier.
Please note: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for official healthcare guidance. Eligibility requirements and registration procedures may change. Consult the official Portuguese government and SNS websites for the latest information.
