The Portuguese government's program to provide free psychology and nutrition consultations to young people has seen significant uptake since its inception in July. According to the Instituto Português do Desporto e Juventude (IPDJ), a total of 90,019 checks have been issued, with 52,337 in the area of psychology and 37,682 in the area of nutrition. These checks correspond to 42,040 requests made by young people between the ages of 12 and 35.
The IPDJ reported that around 14,000 checks were for continuity of care, following the first two mandatory consultations. In terms of actual consultations, 8,116 have been recorded, with 4,385 in psychology and 3,731 in nutrition. However, the IPDJ noted that the recorded consultations do not necessarily reflect the actual number of consultations carried out, due to issues with the platform used to support the program.
The platform issues have caused difficulties for psychologists trying to register new checks, leading to concerns about the program's effectiveness. The IPDJ confirmed that professionals participating in the program will be unable to register new consultations until November 29, due to a technological update that requires a transitional period of adaptation.
Despite the technical issues, the IPDJ assured that young people will continue to receive the necessary care. The limitation on registering consultations only affects the administrative recording of consultations by professionals and does not impact the care provided to young people, the submission of new check requests, or access to other platform functionalities.
According to Rosana Milhomens, a psychologist who highlighted the issue, she can conduct consultations and register the corresponding check once the platform is available. However, until the consultation is registered, she cannot receive payment for her services. The IPDJ explained that payments are made within 90 days of the consultation, provided the respective invoice is submitted.
To access the program, young people must request checks through the gov.pt platform using their Chave Móvel Digital, which verifies their age. The program aims to provide free psychology and nutrition consultations to support the well-being of young people in Portugal.
The IPDJ expects professionals to be able to register consultations on the platform again from November 30. The program's success will depend on its ability to address technical issues and ensure that young people receive the care they need.
Key points
- Over 42,000 young people have requested free psychology and nutrition consultations in Portugal since July.
- Technical issues with the platform have caused difficulties for psychologists trying to register new checks.
- Despite the challenges, young people will continue to receive care, and payments will be made once consultations are registered.
