José Manuel Bolieiro calls for hospital response tailored to São Miguel's needs - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Azorean Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, accompanied by the Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, met today with the Board of the São Miguel Island Council, chaired by Jorge Rita, at the Conceição Palace in Ponta Delgada to discuss the next steps regarding the future of the Divino Espírito Santo Hospital (HDES).

The head of the Azorean Government stated that the Regional Government has been working on a solution "to harness the potential of the capacity already in place," namely that created by the modular structure implemented after the May 2024 fire, integrating it into a more solid hospital response tailored to the island's needs.

For José Manuel Bolieiro, the option involves a focused intervention within the current hospital perimeter, involving a thorough reorganisation of areas and services.

"The goal is to ensure that São Miguel has a modern and functional hospital that is better prepared for the future, while also learning from recent experience," he said.

The government official stated that the technical work currently underway shows a significant improvement in the outpatient component of the future hospital, aligned with more current care models. The functional plans under review also provide for the expansion of areas such as surgery, inpatient care, emergency care and intensive care, ensuring better operating conditions and clinical response.

José Manuel Bolieiro also emphasised that the modular structure will continue to play an important role during the HDES intervention phases, supporting care activities and ensuring the continuity of healthcare.

"It is essential to ensure stability in the service provided to the population while a lasting solution is being developed," he stressed.

The President of the São Miguel Island Council, Jorge Rita, considered that the process should be conducted with caution, advocating a phased and financially sustainable approach. He also stressed the importance of simultaneously reinforcing the island's primary healthcare network.

The Government of the Azores will continue to monitor the process of defining the future of the HDES, which will be considered by the Council of the Government in due course. The definitive schedule for the presentation of the final project is yet to be established.