"We have two problems here. We have the problem that happened in the last two weeks that was in some way aggravated taking into account a series of strikes that took place, but INEM's problems did not arise this week, nor last week", stated the president.

Carlos Cortes, who visited INEM's Urgent Patient Guidance Center (CODU) in Porto this afternoon, highlighted that INEM's problems have accumulated over the years and that those responsible for health care "never knew how to resolve them" .

"They never had due concern and somehow ignored INEM", he said.

The president also highlighted that the Order of Doctors "is concerned" and that "more than pointing out problems" it intends to present solutions to "help turn this page around".

Among the solutions, Carlos Cortes highlighted the need to move forward with a "reform of human resources" at INEM.

Asked about the Ministry of Health's responsibilities in this matter, the president said he hoped that “more than intentions and promises, there will be an implementation of solutions and proposals to overcome this difficult moment”.

The deaths of 11 people allegedly associated with failures in INEM service led to the opening of seven investigations by the Public Ministry (MP), one of which has already been archived. There is also an ongoing investigation by the General Inspectorate of Health Activities (IGAS).

The delay in responding to emergency calls worsened during the week-long overtime strike by pre-hospital emergency technicians, who are demanding a career review and better salary conditions.

The strike was suspended after the signing of a negotiation protocol between the Government and the category's union.