The Regional Secretary for Health highlighted in Ponta Delgada the signs of the work developed by community nursing and its multiplier effect in the medium and long term.
"For example, between 2012 and 2016, the number of nursing consultations carried out in regional health units quadrupled, increasing from 184 thousand to 746 thousand consultations," said Rui Luís, who spoke at the opening of the 3rd Community Nursing Colloquium.
In his speech, the government official also stressed the increase of consultations provided to diabetic patients and the results of the National Vaccination Plan; the latter registers an adherence rate of 99%.
Rui Luís praised the performance of community nurses for their outstanding role in health education and disease prevention, whether it is an action directed at individuals, families or the community.
"I would say that your skills and mission are fully aligned with the strategy designed for the Regional Health Service to operate a change in the quality of life of citizens, either by combating obesity or by reducing consumption and promoting healthy lifestyles," said the Regional Secretary.
In this context, Rui Luís highlighted the Government's strategic line, such as the Regional Programme for the Promotion of Healthy Food, which will be subject to public consultation very soon. It also includes the Action Plan to Combat Tobacco and the Action Plan for the Reduction of Problems related to Alcohol Consumption; both will be implemented during this year.
In the context of school health, the Regional Secretary highlighted a coverage rate of 100% in terms of schools and students.
"The bridge to true health literacy also starts at school. We believe that this is one of the main pillars for a change health-disease paradigm," said the government official.
Rui Luís also stressed the importance of the indicators to evaluate and improve action measures, considering that "the production of indicators is essential to quantify and qualify the health gains achieved by the populations."