A new scandal has emerged in Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) involving a dermatologist at Lisbon’s Santa Maria Hospital. The doctor reportedly earned around €400,000 by working extra shifts on just 10 Saturdays through the SIGIC program.
CNN Portugal reported that the dermatologist performed additional surgeries during these shifts. One of these surgeries included removing benign lesions from the doctor’s own parents.
The controversy centers on SIGIC, the Integrated Management System for Surgery Scheduling. This government program allows hospitals to carry out surgeries outside normal hours to reduce long waiting lists.
The Inspectorate-General of Health Activities (IGAS) has launched an investigation into the use of SIGIC for extra surgical work within the SNS. The inquiry includes a full audit of dermatology procedures at Santa Maria Hospital since 2021. This audit will review financial practices and how patients were classified under the Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) system.
Health Minister Ana Paula Martins spoke about the issue on Monday, expressing serious concern. She said, “This case does nothing to build trust among the Portuguese. Until the facts are clarified, a shadow of suspicion remains over the institution — the largest hospital in the country — especially for those still waiting for a surgery or consultation.”
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