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The Council of the Government approved the 2026 action plan for the Integrated Continuing Care Network (REDE), establishing coverage targets and the renewal and creation of 526 new inpatient and home support places.
The Regional Government approved, through Regional Government Council Resolution No. 829/2026, the framework of activities and targets for the operation and expansion of the Integrated Continuing Care Network (REDE) in 2026. The measure aims to improve the quality of care, increase response capacity, and extend coverage, with a special focus on mental health care.
The resolution defines 16 priority activities for the year, which include revising the governance model, implementing a digital system for referral and contracting, training professionals, and streamlining access to units.
Territorial coverage ratios have been established to serve as a planning reference. For an estimated population of 60,285 people aged 65 or over, the ratios indicate a need for 524 beds in Long-Term and Maintenance Units (ULDM), 289 in Convalescence, and 301 in Medium-Term and Rehabilitation Units (UMDR). Between 16 and 10 Integrated Continuing Care Home Teams (ECCI) are also planned.
The legislation also approves the specific list of places to be funded in 2026, through the renewal and signing of program-contracts. In total, 526 places are planned, with an estimated total financial cost of €15,082,172.53 for general continuing care and €1,335,554.80 for mental health care.
The implementation of the measures and the signing of the contracts are dependent on the verification of all legal and technical requirements and the availability of financial resources.
The Region has authorised the allocation of costs for a cleaning contract covering several SESARAM facilities. The base price is €949,066.80, plus VAT at 22%, with the expenditure planned for 2027.
The renewed contract with CPE - Companhia de Parques de Estacionamento, S.A. secures the premises used by Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital’s Outpatient Clinic for a further five years. The total cost is €381,471.48, exempt from VAT.
Adaptations are being considered at the Porto da Cruz Nursing Home and São Roque Community Centre to accommodate people who are medically fit for discharge but cannot return home for social reasons. The number of places has not yet been set, and the works have not been authorised.