The Portuguese health policy in austerity: the perspective of Social Work

Abstract This paper analyzes Portugal’s health policy from the perspective of Social Work in time of austerity. We have identified the competencies and responsibilities of Social Work in the field of health and evidenced the trajectory of the National Health Service since its inception until its recent developments. Notably, changes occurred to the health policy during the economic crisis of the State between 2010 and 2015, and an analysis was made of the impact of these changes in Social Service, while considering scenarios where the scarcity of resources and privatization of the sector are both common facts. In order to achieve the goals we have set, we opted for an approach focused on documentary analysis, based on the experience of the authors (evidence-based practice).