Hybrid healthcare hub in Portugal: ULSSM, Medtronic join forces
October 29, 2026
The Santa Maria Local Health Unit (ULSSM) and Medtronic have signed a memorandum of collaboration to create the Hybrid Healthcare Hub in Portugal. The model combines in-person care with data-based remote monitoring. The stated aim is more efficient and sustainable care that stays close to patients.
Carlos das Neves Martins, chairman of the ULSSM board, and Luís Lopes Pereira, general director of Medtronic Portugal, formalized the agreement on 27 October.
The hybrid healthcare hub in Portugal starts with four projects
Home hospitalization extends the “Virtual Hospital” concept by linking hospital services, primary care and the community. Robotic surgery focuses on optimizing ULSSM resources and expanding its Robotic Surgery Unit. In general surgery, colorectal and bariatric clinical pathways will evolve. In urology, the aim is to transform patient pathways by integrating hospitals with primary care.
Martins said the partnership has “a strong commitment to data security and patient-centered innovation” and fits a strategy of joining major health-sector brands with the Santa Maria brand.
Why it matters
The release gives no financial terms, patient volumes, outcome measures or evaluation plan. The arrangement cannot yet be judged on cost or clinical value.
Home hospitalization is where funding and measurement questions arise most directly, because it moves hospital care into the patient’s home. The release presents data security as a strong commitment, but does not say how that commitment will apply to remote monitoring data.
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