The project, which involved an investment of approximately 200 thousand euros, with 134 thousand euros funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), aims to improve access to oral health in the municipality. This is the second dental chair installed in the primary healthcare services of Santo Tirso; the first was at the Nova Saúde Health Unit in São Martinho do Campo. Access to consultations is by referral from General and Family Medicine doctors.
The president of the Municipal Chamber of Santo Tirso, Alberto Costa, highlighted the importance of these works for people's quality of life, stating that "these are small works that make a big difference in people's lives and quality of life." Costa emphasized the commitment to "provide quality services in education, social services, and also in health".
The refurbishment of the São Tomé Health Unit included improvements to the reception areas, waiting rooms, and psychology and nutrition offices. The president of the Board of Directors of ULS Médio Ave, Luís Vales, stressed that "oral health is a priority for the ULS and the Municipality," with the goal of "achieving full oral and dental health coverage for the population".
This initiative is part of a municipal program to modernize five health facilities in the municipality, with a total investment of around three million euros. The program also includes the former Dispensary of Santo Tirso, the Veiga Leça Health Unit, the former Health Center of São Martinho do Campo, and the Santo Tirso Health Center. The project aligns with the Municipal Health Strategy 2025–2030, which supports the acquisition of dental prostheses for economically vulnerable individuals.
