Health, Pharmacies and Medical Help

Public Health Centre: Altura

Tel: (00351) 281 957 846 GPS: https://www.google.com/maps?q=37.1778819,-7.5040084 (Not 24hr / Não 24hr / No 24hr / Pas 24hr)

Public Health Centre: Vila Real de Santo António

Address: Av. Duarte Pacheco 46, 8900 – 211 Tel: (00351) 281 530 270 (24hrs) GPS: https://www.google.com/maps?q=37.190404,-7.4178605

Private Health Centres

Centro Médico Internacional Address: Complexo Desportivo de Vila Real de Santo António, Estrada da Mata, 8900-261 Tel: (00351) 282 420 400 Website: www.grupohpa.com

Pharmacies (Farmácias)

Pharmacies are easily identified by the green cross displayed on the façade. The cross is illuminated when the chemist is open. Pharmacists are qualified to diagnose health problems and suggest appropriate treatments. There is a rota system for out-of-hours opening.

Practical point: if one pharmacy is closed, check the posted duty rota (“farmácia de serviço”) on the door for the nearest open alternative.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

If you are in possession of an EHIC, you can receive reduced cost (sometimes free) medical treatment during your trip, because of either illness or an accident. Your card entitles you to state-provided medical treatment only.

Emergency and urgent contacts

• 112 — National emergency number (ambulance, police, fire).
• SNS 24: 808 24 24 24 (health advice line in Portugal).
• Keep your passport/ID, insurance details, and exact location ready before calling.

When to use what

• Life-threatening or severe symptoms: call 112 immediately.
• Non-emergency but urgent concern: start with SNS 24 or local health centre.
• Minor issues (cold, mild allergy, basic medication): pharmacy is usually fastest.