The working meeting, held at the Ministry of Health, focused on the effective integration of dentists into primary and hospital healthcare. It was communicated that the 90-day period for the approval of Law No. 45/2026, of August 11, which creates the special career of dental medicine in the SNS, will only begin to count from January 1, 2027.
In the absence of a finalized document, the Executive requested the Central Administration of the Health System to draft a career proposal outline. After this initial period, meetings will be held with sector stakeholders and social partners. The OMD will monitor the process, acting as a facilitator, but will not participate in remuneration negotiations, which are a union prerogative.
The Order advocated for equivalence with the medical career in terms of competencies and functional intervention, referencing the model in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. Miguel Pavão highlighted the strategic opportunity to consolidate dental medicine in the public sector, enhancing citizens' access.
The meeting also addressed the reinstatement of the issuance of Certificates of Temporary Incapacity, with the Secretary of State committing to analyze the issue with the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security to find a solution, similar to progress made in Madeira.
The ordinance regulating the licensing of dental medicine practices and clinics was also reviewed. The Order of Dentists pointed out aspects to be revised in the decree. The Executive expressed receptiveness to improving the regulatory text.
Regarding pending dossiers in radiology, specifically the requirements for the training of the Radiation Protection Delegate, the ministry postponed clarification of the deadlines for the publication of the respective ordinance.
