The building for the new Family Health Unit in São Brás de Alportel is now constructed, awaiting the necessary equipment to begin operations. The Municipal Council, in collaboration with the Local Health Unit of the Algarve (ULS), has submitted an application for funds from the Algarve 2030 program to acquire the equipment, budgeted at approximately 308 thousand euros.
The Mayor, Marlene Guerreiro, emphasized the priority of the residents' health, justifying the need to proceed with the application despite the significant additional cost. The initiative is supported by a protocol signed with the ULS and assistance from the CCDR Algarve.
The completion of the work, marked on October 2nd, was attended by representatives from the Local Health Unit, including Dr. Tiago Botelho and Dr. Gabriela Peixoto, the coordinator of the Family Health Unit, Dr. Daniel Custódio, and his team. Also present were members of the municipal executive, the President of the Municipal Assembly, Vítor Guerreiro, the President of the Parish Council, João Rosa, and representatives from the construction company, Martins e Gago.
Spanning 745 m², the new facility represents a total investment of 2,825,000 euros, with 2,217,000 euros financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). The unit features 14 medical and nursing offices, training and multipurpose rooms, a reception and waiting area, a kitchenette, staff restrooms and changing rooms, storage areas, and 49 parking spaces.
Marlene Guerreiro praised the commitment of the construction company, the Local Health Unit, and the municipal technical team, anticipating a swift opening to serve the community. Tiago Botelho expressed hope for the space to be "vibrant and full of people" soon.
The relocation from the old Family Health Unit will allow for the adaptation of current spaces in the Health Center, enhancing the range of services offered. The Municipal Council is preparing a plan to equip the repurposed building with diagnostic tools, therapies, and preventive health services, particularly in cardiology and psychiatry, in partnership with the Local Health Unit.
The Municipality also raised concerns regarding the Southern Rehabilitation Medicine Center and other issues related to strengthening health services in the region. The completion of this new unit signifies the end of a major phase and the beginning of new health investments in the county.
