Santos, Carolina Borges da CunhaLeong, Mei Ian2025-03-312025-03-312025-01-102025-01-10http://hdl.handle.net/10362/181692This project focuses on creating an observatory for Portugal's Local Health Units (LHU) to develop a health index measuring key performance metrics. The index evaluates the performance of 24 LHUs over the first two quarters of 2024, offering critical insights into efficiency and financing, quality, and access within the Portuguese NHS. Using a Differences in-Differences methodology, it assesses the impact of vertically integrating primary and hospital care, finding no short-run effects on performance in the analyzed dimensions. By supporting resource allocation and service improvements through data-driven decision-making, the observatory provides a foundation for improving healthcare integration, sustainability, and patient-centered outcomes.engLocal Health UnitsHealth data analysisIntegration of careHealthcare qualityHealthcare performance evaluationmaster thesis203927303