The new SNS 24 referral service (808 24 24 24) will be in a pilot phase for three months, with the aim of “strengthening access to health and optimising resources of the National Health Service (SNS)”, says the SPMS in a statement.

“After screening and clinical assessment carried out by the health professional on Line SNS 24, the patient may be referred to Teleconsultation Line SNS 24. It is the health professional who makes this referral. It does not include monitoring chronic diseases, renewing medications or evaluating test results”.

According to the SPMS, teleconsultation via video call takes place via an online transmission platform ('streaming'), which can be accessed via the SNS 24 Portal, using the 'link' that users received via SMS, or via the SNS 24 App, if you have the mobile app installed.

“This new referral service is carried out via video call by doctors specialising in general and family medicine, with access to integrated information systems, allowing them to make a medical diagnosis and, if necessary, prescribe therapy, as well as establish a health care plan for the patient”.

To carry out a teleconsultation, the person needs access to a cell phone and a device with a camera, microphone and internet connection, and must also make sure that they are in a quiet environment, without external interference, to preserve the privacy of the consultation.

During the consultation, it is understood that the doctor may determine the need for in-person care, if the symptoms or severity of the user's condition require it.

“At no cost to the user, Teleconsultation Line SNS 24 will make it possible, in certain clinical situations, to avoid traveling to in-person health services, maintaining the convenience, effectiveness and safety of a medical consultation. It also allows optimising the resources of hospitals and health centres”, emphasise the SPMS.

Teleconsultation Line SNS 24 is integrated with the SNS and all services will be available in the user's medical record history, with the clinical report shared with the user at the end of the consultation.