Portugal launches Strategic Health Pact to reform long-term healthcare policy

Negotiations for Portugal’s Strategic Health Pact are now underway, with key political figures stepping into leading roles. Joana Cordeiro, vice president of Parliament’s Health Committee, will represent the Liberal Initiative (IL) in the talks. The pact aims to bring stability and long-term planning to the country’s health system. The push for a Health Pact began during António José Seguro’s campaign, where he highlighted the need for consensus and a lasting vision in healthcare. He has repeatedly stressed that stability, predictability, and policy continuity are essential for the sector’s future.

Former Health Minister Adalberto Campos Fernandes has been chosen to coordinate the pact’s development. His appointment comes as the government seeks to align different political and professional perspectives.

Joana Cordeiro’s involvement was widely expected. As coordinator of the liberal parliamentary group and a long-time observer of the health sector, she has tracked its challenges for the past four years. Currently, she is also specialising in Hospital Administration at NOVA University Lisbon.

Cordeiro’s approach centres on practical health outcomes and a patient-focused system. Her background in policy and administration positions her as a strong voice in shaping the pact’s direction. The Strategic Health Pact is designed to create a shared, medium- to long-term strategy for Portugal’s healthcare. With Cordeiro representing the IL and Campos Fernandes leading coordination, the talks will focus on concrete improvements. The final agreement is expected to guide health policy for years to come.