Portugal: Paramedics start overtime strike nationwide, April 17

Event

Healthcare workers represented by the Union of Pre-Hospital Emergency Technicians (STEPH) started an overtime strike on April 17. The industrial action is to denounce staff working conditions. The labor union states that the strike will be indefinite. Local health authorities report disruptions in ambulance services, and emergency medical treatment, nationwide.

The industrial action will likely prompt continued disruptions to healthcare services, including a reduction in available services and cancelations of routine appointments. Disruptions could persist following strike days as medical facilities deal with a backlog of patients. Demonstrations are possible outside medical facilities.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments in Portugal. Be aware of potential delays to emergency healthcare provision. Avoid all demonstrations a precaution. Follow local travel and security advice.

Resources

Portugal Health Service