[Family Health Reform in Portugal: analysis of its implementation]

Primary healthcare in Portugal is undergoing a major reform, of which family health units (FHU) are one of the more visible results. This study aimed to evaluate the FHU implementation process from 2006 onwards. Methods from a previous study of primary healthcare implementation in Brazil were used. Dimensions studied included comprehensiveness of care, organization of care, and the political-institutional perspective. The main improvements identified included better availability of care, team work, technical quality of care, innovative management practices, sustainability of the model, working conditions and infrastructure improvements. Main challenges remaining include integration with hospital care, political and institutional gray areas, need for better information systems, integration within health centers and workflow organization. These data may be useful for management decision-makers when making adjustments and corrections in the reform process.