José Manuel Bolieiro praises "humanity" of blood donors and highlights "increase in activity at HDES" - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Azorean Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, chaired today the ceremony marking National Blood Donor Day at the auditorium of the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital (HDES) in Ponta Delgada, accompanied by the Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, at an event marked by the public recognition of hundreds of Azorean blood donors.

The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the profoundly human value of blood donation, emphasising that “we must bring humanity to humanity” at a time of global conflicts and challenges.

José Manuel Bolieiro expressed “respect and gratitude” towards the donors, considering them “an inspiration for practising active altruism in a world where it is so often lacking.”

“Donors show courage and altruism. We must keep our eyes on those who inspire us,” he said, praising the civic example of those who voluntarily contribute to saving lives.

The President of the Government also acknowledged that, despite the difficulties intrinsic to public administration, there is an ongoing commitment to improvement.

“We do not have a magic wand to solve every problem every day, but we have a duty, at every moment, to do our best to achieve the best possible outcome.”

José Manuel Bolieiro congratulated the HDES Board of Directors on reviving this public recognition initiative, which had not taken place since 2019. He noted that this moment “honours the hospital and highlights the importance of a humanistic approach in the interaction amongst professionals, patients and the Regional Health Service.”

The President of the Azorean Government also praised the role of the São Miguel Blood Donors’ Association, highlighting its contribution to mobilising society for this cause.

“The humanistic and humanitarian spirit of the Azoreans places the Azores at the forefront, as a true inspiration,” he emphasised.

During 2026, a total of 1,467 blood donors will be recognised across the three regional hospitals, with medals and certificates awarded in accordance with the Blood Donor Regulations of the Azores Regional Health Service.

José Manuel Bolieiro also took the opportunity to highlight the positive progress in the healthcare provision at HDES. Comparing 2024 and 2025, the number of consultations increased by 12%, from 230,899 to 259,255, including a 13% rise in first-time consultations and a 12% rise in follow-up consultations.

“Credit is due to those who are not complacent with a job well done and maintain the standard of always striving to do better,” he emphasised.

Other indicators also point to a growth trend, notably an 8% increase in admissions, a 10% rise in the volume of surgical procedures and a 26% increase in inpatient surgery, as well as an 18% rise in emergency surgical activity. Day hospital activity grew by 9%, and complementary diagnostic and therapeutic services increased by 17%.

The launch of the home hospitalisation unit, which has been operational since October 2025, was also highlighted as a significant step in the modernisation of healthcare in the Region.

The ceremony was also attended by the President of the Board of Directors of the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital, Carlos Pinto Lopes, and the Head of the Haematology Department, Fátima Oliveira, as well as the other members of the HDES Board of Directors. Also present were the distinguished donors and the São Miguel Blood Donors’ Association.