In a social media post, Menezes stated that “a proposal from a working group of the Ministry of Health, which devalues the capabilities of hospitals and hospital centers in Gaia, Santa Maria da Feira, and Matosinhos, is under public debate.” Defending the Local Health Unit Gaia/Espinho (ULSGE), he issued a warning to Ana Paula Martins.
“I want to alert the Minister of Health, whom I give the benefit of the doubt of not being involved with the powerful ‘lobbies’ that continue to control everything: inform yourself Madam Minister and please immediately assure the mayors, health professionals, and citizens of these major municipalities,” the post reads.
Menezes recalled that “months ago,” during the appointment of the new administration of the ULSGE, there were rumors, which he refuses to believe, that suggested a group of people was tasked with devaluing the health services in Gaia.
“I did not believe and do not believe, however, I am awaiting a vigorous response from those responsible,” Menezes writes, reiterating his appeal to the Minister of Health.
“Inform yourself and state immediately that you will not consent to this decision, which lacks technical and political sense. It is unacceptable and shameful and will face our strong opposition,” he added.
For the Mayor of Vila Nova de Gaia, the path for ULSGE “should be the opposite, to enhance the largest Hospital Center south of Porto.”
The recently elected mayor, who ran with the PSD/CDS-PP/IL coalition, even advocates for it to be transformed into a university center in partnership with the University of Aveiro.
“Given the hospital reality, it should be the Porto South Faculty – Gaia, Feira Aveiro,” he defended.
The potential devaluation of ULSGE has already been criticized by the PS of Gaia, who is now the opposition in the city council.
On Saturday, the group of socialist councilors led by João Paulo Correia issued a statement also demanding answers.
“If the Ministry of Health’s intention is implemented, Vila Nova de Gaia will lose differentiated services, which will negatively impact thousands of users and families who will be forced to travel to Porto for consultations and treatments they currently receive at ULSGE,” argued PS/Gaia.
The socialists recall the direct costs, travel time, and express concern that users and families will lose quality in service provision, mentioning a “downgrade in favor of” Porto hospitals, namely São João and Santo António.
