Day 4 of TIAS: USF Tejo

Visit to USF Tejo

TIAS EMHA students visited USF Tejo for an in-depth session focused on the organisation, functioning, and operational model of a primary healthcare unit within the Portuguese National Health System.

The visit began with a guided tour of the facilities, providing students with a first-hand understanding of the unit’s physical layout, patient flow, and the daily dynamics of care delivery. 

Following the tour, students attended presentations delivered by Dr. Leandro Luís and Dr. Frederico Rocha, who offered a detailed overview of the unit’s organisation and care model. The speakers explained how USF Tejo operates within the broader primary care framework, highlighting its internal processes, team-based approach, and mechanisms for coordinating patient care across different levels of the health system.

The session provided valuable insights into the central role of primary care in strengthening healthcare systems, particularly in terms of prevention, early intervention, and the efficient management of patient pathways. It also highlighted the importance of well-structured community-based care models in improving both population health outcomes and system sustainability.

Overall, the visit offered students a meaningful opportunity to connect theoretical concepts with real-world practice, deepening their understanding of how primary care units function on a day-to-day basis within a complex healthcare environment.

A special thank you to Dr. Leandro Luís and Dr. Frederico Rocha for their time, openness, and for generously sharing their knowledge and experience with the group.