COVID-19 pandemic impact on Primary Health Care Accessibility in Portugal

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health systems worldwide, mobilizing most of its resources to care. In Portugal, since mid-March 2020, the scheduled assistance activity primary care services has been altered or interrupted, respond needs users with suspected diagnosed SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study intends aims assess impact in terms access during 2020 Portugal. Primary Health Care accessibility data were extracted from national transparency portal. Data aggregated by 5 regions and compared homologous periods for years 2019 2020. number consultations decreased Alentejo (-5%), Algarve (-1%) Centre but increased both North (+6%) Lisbon Tagus Valley (+7%). appointments (-16%), increasing unscheduled (+24%). Those differences higher first lockdown (-42% schedule vs + 13% appointments). Presential 38%, non-presential 101%, domiciliary reduced 37%. Changes regular units compromised presential non-COVID-19 population. After wave, resumption changed face-to-face consultation. adoption new technologies telemedicine total registered consultations, previous year. However, not all consultation is fact patient-facing teleconsultation, some them being just prescription renewal prescribe complementary exams. Predominantly urban less affected suspension activity, maintaining their provision telework. Key messages Amidst pandemic, Portuguese ensured population rural