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Publication
How to Unleash the Potential of the Portuguese Registry of Intensive Care Medicine?
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Intensive Care Medicine has undergone profound transformations in recent years. Although reliable data specific to
Portugal is unavailable, it is estimated that Intensive Care Departments (ICD) account for approximately 13.4% of total hos pital costs, 4.1% of national healthcare spending, and nearly 0.6% of the gross national product globally.1
Given the rapid pace of development in this field, ensuring safe, effective and equitable care depends on solid metrics and high-quality research as the cornerstones for continuous improvement.2 National registries, developed over 30 years ago as part of quality improvement programs, have become indispens able data sources globally, providing valuable insights into the epidemiology of critically ill patients.3 The success of these pioneering initiatives, coupled with advancements in information technology and recognition of their potential to support a broad range of observational and interventional research, has driven their geographic expansion.2 The Portuguese Registry of Intensive Care Medicine (RNMI, Registo Nacional de Medicina Intensiva) was established within this global movement, with the goal of supporting research and quality improvement in national intensive care. By offering a robust, data-driven foundation, the RNMI enables meaningful national and international comparisons, fostering evidence-based practices and enhancing patient outcomes in intensive care settings. Furthermore, in 2012, Portugal had only 6.4 ICU beds per 100,000 inhabitants, and while the latest national census reports an increase to 9.5 active beds per 100,000 inhabitants, this figure remains significantly below the European average, highlighting the need for better resource planning.4