The implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare systems — and particularly within the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) — represents both a transformative opportunity and a strategic challenge for promoting health, preventing disease, and delivering care to the population.
With technological progress and growing pressure for efficiency and universal access, the use of AI systems has become increasingly relevant in the context of epidemiological transition and the rising complexity of healthcare delivery.
This document sets out a starting point for developing a national strategy for AI implementation in the SNS, ensuring that this technological transition is evidence-based, sustainable, and aligned with the values of the public health system.
The proposal underscores the importance of a participatory strategy, involving all stakeholders and adopting a systemic perspective that connects technological innovation with public health objectives.
Main Pillars of the Proposal
🔹 Definition and Framework of AI in the SNS Context
The document presents the definition of Artificial Intelligence adopted under the European Union AI Act (Regulation 2024/1689), highlighting its operational and legal implications. This definition encompasses a wide range of applications and emphasizes the importance of selecting the right model for each problem.
🔹 Foundational Questions for Building the Strategy
Before developing new solutions, it is essential to understand the reasons and goals for change. The document proposes four key guiding questions:
Why is change needed?
What should be changed?
What is the purpose of that change?
How should that change be implemented?
🔹 Guiding Principles of the Strategy
Any application of AI in healthcare must be grounded in the principles of responsibility, rigor, relevance, functionality, and positive health impact, ensuring that the use of technology remains people-centered and contributes to improved health outcomes.
🔹 Mapping Existing Experiences
The document also includes a brief overview of AI implementations within the SNS, identifying best practices and lessons learned — providing a foundation for informed evaluation and replication of successful initiatives.
Event: “AI in Healthcare: Challenges and Opportunities for the SNS”
The document was presented at the event AI in Healthcare: Challenges and Opportunities for the SNS, held on October 27, 2025, at NOVA School of Business and Economics, which brought together policymakers, academics, and healthcare professionals to discuss the impact and implementation of AI in the Portuguese health system.
📊 View the presentation slides here:
📄 Read the full document in Portuguese here:
AI@SNS Working Group Composition
The AI@SNS Working Group, integrated within the Nova SBE Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center (NHEM KC), brings together researchers and professionals with expertise in healthcare, economics, management, and technology, dedicated to reflecting on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the future of the National Health Service (SNS).
The group seeks to promote a responsible, inclusive, and evidence-based approach to the adoption of AI technologies, with the aim of strengthening the efficiency, equity, and sustainability of the Portuguese healthcare system.
Coordinator: José Miguel Diniz
Members: Ana Rita Santos, Filipa Machado Vaz, Henrique Vasconcelos, João Dionísio, Mário Ribeiro, Pedro Ramos, and Teresa Soares