A document released today outlines the position for the municipal elections scheduled for October 12, emphasizing the need for coordinated action between central and local government to address current health challenges.
The USF-AN suggests that local authorities can supplement the National Health Service (SNS) by forming teams and partnerships to ensure access to some services.
The association believes municipal contributions can be significant in mental health through municipal psychologist networks and community groups, as well as in oral health via hygiene programs in schools and care homes.
Additionally, the document advocates for annual screenings and free optometry consultations, as well as the establishment of community physiotherapy offices with after-hours availability, local gym partnerships, and sports association collaborations.
“Local authorities can and should provide conditions that retain professionals in the area,” the document states, proposing local financial incentives, like risk, productivity, or travel allowances, access to affordable housing, and protocols with nurseries and schools for priority access.
In health service management, USF-AN calls for a shared management model of local health units with local government and health professionals’ involvement, and the creation of municipal health councils with SNS, municipality, user associations, and civil society representation.
The association also emphasizes participatory health budgets and funding for community health innovation pilot projects.
USF-AN believes local governments can promote healthy lifestyles by creating community fitness teams integrated with health units, and assist users in navigating the health system.
Proposals include promoting “community health agents” to assist users with appointment bookings and transportation, and setting up municipal digital support stations with access to the SNS citizen area.
Another priority is supporting continuity of care, suggesting the creation of municipal case manager teams for complex situations, formal and informal caregiver pools, and telemonitoring programs for isolated seniors, coordinated with family health teams.
