Mónica Seidi highlights expansion of Integrated Continuing Care Network by upgrading UCCI at D. Pedro V Home - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social

The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, chaired today the ceremony of laying the first stone for the expansion project of the Integrated Continuing Care Unit (UCCI) at the D. Pedro V Home in Praia da Vitória. This is a strategic investment to strengthen the Regional Integrated Continuing Care Network (RRCCI) and improve the response to the needs of the population of Terceira Island.

“This is an essential investment for Terceira Island and the consolidation of the Regional Integrated Continuing Care Network, improving the response capacity and ensuring better care for those who need it,” she said.

Mónica Seidi also highlighted the role of Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) as key partners of the Regional Health Service in this area, pointing out the D. Pedro V Home as a leading institution, recognised for the quality of its work and commitment to providing care to the population.

The work that has now begun represents an investment of around €3 million. It will create an additional 23 vacancies at this facility, addressing a long-standing need within the RRCCI.

The project involves a new floor on top of the west wing of the existing building, as well as a connecting passageway to the physiotherapy block, with a total expansion area of 628 square metres. The new unit will have ten double rooms, one isolation room and two palliative care rooms, designed with a particular focus on creating a more humanised environment and care provision.

With an estimated completion period of 540 days, this project is part of the ongoing investments currently underway on Terceira Island, promoted by the Regional Government, which have already reached a total of €30 million.

Currently, the D. Pedro V Home has 12 beds within the RRCCI network, divided between medium- and long-term care units. In 2025, the average occupancy rate reached 96%, with several periods of full occupancy. These figures highlight the growing demand for this type of care.

The Regional Secretary also highlighted the results achieved by the institution in the quality indicators monitored by the RRCCI, noting that these reflect the professionalism, dedication and competence of the teams who support residents daily.

“More than just building a structure, we are creating the conditions to upgrade services, improve care, and ensure greater dignity and quality of life for those who need this type of support,” concluded Mónica Seidi.