Administration cites “loss of institutional trust”
The director of the Oncology Department at the Algarve’s Local Health Unit (ULS), Ana Varges Gomes, was dismissed on Tuesday, with the health authority’s management citing a “loss of institutional trust.”
The decision came just over two weeks after oncologists in the Algarve allegedly refused responsibility for the quality of patient care due to what they described as unsafe and unacceptable working conditions at the region’s public health services.
According to Tiago Botelho, president of the ULS board, the dismissal came in response to that document, which he claimed contained “unjustified allegations” and created a “general atmosphere of discomfort” within the department.
Botelho noted that the document was sent via Dr. Varges Gomes’s email and lacked individual signatures from the medical team. “We never received confirmation from any doctor directly,” he told Lusa news agency, adding that several doctors ended up distancing themselves from the statement.
In response, Varges Gomes said she was informed of the dismissal in a meeting but stated she would remain in her role until she receives official written notification.
She also questioned the grounds for her dismissal, pointing out that her role – unlike department heads – “is not a political appointment but based on merit” and, currently, held on an interim basis pending an open tender.
Varges Gomes also expressed concern about the motivation behind the decision: “It seems to be a bit strange to be removed over a letter that raises serious concerns about patient safety, particularly when the issues relate to delays in essential treatments.”
The situation escalated in April when the National Federation of Doctors (FNAM) supported the medical team’s decision, highlighting “months-long delays in approving critical medications and diagnostic tests” with a direct impact on patients’ survival and outcomes. The case has since been referred to the Health Inspectorate (IGAS).
However, the ULS board president insists that the allegations against the board are “false”, “unjustified” and cited conflict between the now dismissed head of oncology and other colleagues.
Meanwhile, the Algarve Federation of the Socialist Party (PS) has stated that “ULS Algarve is being transformed into a political platform”, accusing PSD of politicising healthcare.
