OBP with the Portuguese procurement authority, use of AI and standardization of procedures
The Centralized Purchasing Operator (OBP) conducted a study visit to Portugal, where it held a working meeting with leaders of SPMS – Serviços Partilhados do Ministério da Saúde, the central institution for procurement and information technology in the Portuguese health system.
The Administrator of OBP, Ms. Arlinda Pogaj and other officials of the institution met with the Director of SPMS, Mr. Nuno Costa and his team. The meeting focused on the presentation of the Portuguese model of centralized procurement in healthcare, which is considered among the most advanced in Europe. SPMS, created in 2010 and operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance, has built an integrated system where technology, data and standardization are at the core of its functioning.
During the visit, the OBP team was closely acquainted with some of the key practices of this model, including the use of artificial intelligence to support decision-making processes, the construction of national databases for medicines and medical devices integrated with the procurement system, as well as the use of standardized electronic catalogs that enable faster and more transparent procedures.
Another important element was the real-time monitoring of processes and contracts, as well as advanced data analysis, which contribute to increasing efficiency, control and quality in the use of public funds.
This model confirms that procurement goes beyond traditional procedures, turning into an integrated system that guarantees transparency, efficiency and optimization of resources in strategic sectors such as health.
The visit to Portugal reinforces OBP's commitment to continue the transformation process towards a standardized, digitalized and data-driven procurement system, in line with European best practices.
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