OECD Economic Surveys : Portugal 2023 / OECD.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

OECD, author.

Series:

OECD Economic Surveys: Portugal Series

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Economics.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (131 pages)

Edition:

1st ed.

Other Title:

OECD Economic Surveys

Place of Publication:

Paris : OECD Publishing, 2023.

Summary:

The Portuguese economy has rebounded strongly from the COVID-19 crisis. Though high inflation and weak global economic conditions have slowed growth in 2022, renewed fiscal support helped to cushion the impact. Public debt relative to GDP has declined below its 2019 level, but rapid population ageing and strong investment needs are increasing fiscal pressures. Potential growth and productivity gains have declined and skill shortages have emerged. Implementing the ambitious Recovery and Resilience Plan and ensuring fiscal sustainability through more efficient spending and a strengthened fiscal framework are key to a sustained recovery. Streamlining complex administrative processes as part of the public sector's digitalisation efforts and reviewing regulations in professional services and retail trade can improve productivity. In addition, investment in the green transition should continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen climate resilience, in line with Portugal's goal of carbon neutrality. At the same time, while life expectancy is high, the health sector is suffering from staff shortages, underinvestment and long waiting lists. Moving towards a more integrated system of primary, community and hospital care could improve the quality of care and value for money. Reforming primary care would also help to improve access for low-income households and limit avoidable hospitalisations. SPECIAL FEATURE: IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES.

Contents:

Intro

Foreword

Basic Statistics of Portugal, 2022

Executive summary

The strong recovery has decelerated

Efficient public spending is key for fiscal sustainability and growth

A sustained recovery will require tackling long-standing challenges

Reforms are needed to strengthen the health system

1 Key policy insights

COVID-19 and rising costs of living are threatening growth and well-being

High uncertainties have dented the pace of the recovery

Growth has slowed amid tighter financial conditions and high uncertainty

The balance of risks is to the downside

Financial risks will require close monitoring

Strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals for a sustainable recovery

Ensuring fiscal sustainability

Moving towards a performance-oriented and transparent budget framework

Strengthening the fiscal framework

Improving the structure of social expenditures

Streamlining the tax system

Policy reforms for stronger, more inclusive and greener growth

Boosting productivity growth

Helping small and innovative firms to grow

Stimulating technology diffusion and innovation

Enhancing employment and job quality

Strengthening skills

Improving labour market outcomes

Supporting the transition towards a green and sustainable economy

Reducing further greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change

Improving waste and water management

Continuing efforts to reduce corruption

References

2 Improving health outcomes

Portugal's health system has performed well, but is facing challenges

An overview of the Portuguese health system

Strengthening governance and budgeting

Improving the provision of healthcare

Strengthening primary care

Optimising hospital management and services

Ensuring more integrated care.

Enhancing access to healthcare professionals and their work conditions

Improving the supply of general practitioners and specialists

Addressing the shortages of nurses

Reducing geographical disparities

Investing in prevention and healthier lifestyles

Reducing risks from smoking, alcohol and obesity

Curbing further tobacco consumption

Preventing alcohol addictions

Reducing the risks of unhealthy diets

Addressing mental health issues

Reducing workplace risks

Lowering air pollution

References.

Notes:

Description based on publisher supplied metadata and other sources.

ISBN:

92-64-40569-0

92-64-64267-6