The evaluation of the continuing care policy in Portugal by health experts and decision-makers fits into the systemic model of the political process. This model is obtained from inputs that are organized following a logic of representation of public interests, of negotiation, where stakeholders tend to converge towards a consensual solution. The policy's substance is not discussed, but its normative assessment focuses on the question of sustainability and of its adequacy to the needs, in view of the risk perspective, which affects the efficacy and efficiency of the expected results. Using a qualitative approach, this study allows to appraise the risk panorama of Portugal's National Network for Integrated Continuous Care. In addition, it enables to interpret this phenomenon according to the theorization of the collected information. To achieve this, eleven in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants in the area of health, with national and international experience. Data shows that the sustainability of long-term care has been a prime topic on the political agenda and may be subject to diversity of funding. The dominant discourse expresses the challenge and the cost of change, at a time when this level of care assumes a prominent place in the health sector.
Health Policy; National Health Programs Evaluation; Healthcare Needs Assessment; Risk-Taking