The I Resident Pharmacists Conference took place at the NOVA Medical School Educational Building, next to the São Francisco Xavier Hospital, in Lisbon, under the theme “From Knowledge to Decision”. The event was attended by the Portuguese Pharmaceutical Association (Ordem dos Farmacêuticos), represented by its President, Helder Mota Filipe, and included Isabel Aldir, chairperson of the ULS Lisboa Ocidental board, Fernando Pimentel-Santos, head of the pre- and postgraduate teaching department, and Ana Mirco, interim director of pharmaceutical services.
In his speech, the President highlighted the theme's importance: “Scientific knowledge gains meaning when it helps us make informed decisions and provide better care. It is this link between training and practice that we must develop not only during the Residency but throughout our professional lives.”
The program included sessions on clinical pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutical consultation, innovation, pharmacogenomics, and artificial intelligence in hospital pharmacy. Each session began with an expert's perspective, followed by the presentation of residents' projects and scientific discussion. The day concluded with the presentation of the best poster.
Regarding new tools, Helder Mota Filipe advocated for a critical approach: “It is our responsibility to understand the contribution of these tools and integrate them responsibly into professional practice, keeping the quality of care and patient safety as priorities.”
The first cycle of the Pharmaceutical Residency is nearing completion, with the first residents undertaking their final evaluation in early 2027. Since 2023, 752 positions have been opened in the areas of Hospital Pharmacy, Clinical Analysis, and Human Genetics. The President encouraged the residents and thanked the mentors and service teams, emphasizing the need for continued investment and recognition of specialists within the SNS.
