September 16th and 17th | From 9 AM to 6 PM

Portugal is the guest country of HIS 2026: innovation applied to a universal health system

Digital transformation and innovative care models connecting Portugal and Brazil.

Portugal arrives at HIS 2026 with concrete experiences of transformation in its universal health system. The Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) has expanded care beyond the hospital environment, incorporated digital solutions, and contributed to the international governance of artificial intelligence in health.

With a population of 11.4 million inhabitants, Portugal contrasts with Brazil, which has 213.4 million. This difference in scale and care organization makes the exchange between the countries particularly relevant, allowing adaptations to the distinct realities of the Brazilian health system.

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Comparative Data




Portugal

Brazil
Population
Population
Population
11.4 million inhabitants
Population
213.4 million inhabitants
Territory
Territory
Territory
92,000 km²
Territory
8.5 million km²
Aging Population (65 years or older)
Aging Population (65 years or older)
Aging Population (65 years or older)
24.3% of the population
Aging Population (65 years or older)
10.9% of the population
Additional Coverage (insurance or health plans)
Additional Coverage (insurance or health plans)
Additional Coverage (insurance or health plans)
58% of adults
Additional Coverage (insurance or health plans)
25% of adults

Highlights of What Portugal Brings to HIS 2026

Hospital Care Beyond the Hospital

Portugal has expanded its home hospitalization model, allowing eligible patients to receive hospital-level care at home. In 2024, approximately 11,500 patients were treated, with a goal of reaching 30,000 by 2026. This model reduces hospital pressure, improves care continuity, and provides complex care in a familiar environment.

Digital Care: Telemedicine and Artificial Intelligence

The Portuguese SNS implemented remote physiotherapy supported by artificial intelligence, reducing waiting times by 97% and costs by 45%. The solution combines telemedicine, AI, and clinical supervision, promoting safety and efficiency in care. Additionally, the debate on interoperability and data protection takes center stage.

AI Governance in Health

Portugal hosted the WHO global conference on artificial intelligence in health, establishing commitments on data protection, interoperability, and professional training. The country also participates in the Global Regulatory Network of HealthAI, promoting international cooperation in regulation and safety.

Connection Between Health Ecosystems

Portugal and Brazil are collaborating on the development of a Lusophone Cooperation Roadmap in AI and Health, focusing on governance, capacity building, and expanding access to technologies. This partnership facilitates the adaptation of solutions to different contexts and institutional capacities.

What Brazil Can Learn from Portugal

Portugal offers Brazil a model of care innovation and digitalization that can be adapted to Brazilian realities. The exchange between the two countries is an opportunity to:

  • Enhance the efficiency of the Brazilian healthcare system.
  • Promote the responsible adoption of advanced technologies.
  • Strengthen international cooperation in health, focusing on equity and sustainability.
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