Currently operating from 8am to 8pm on weekdays, the unit has faced pressure from residents and local authorities, with specialised care referred to Vila Real or Porto.

Mayor Nuno Vaz welcomed the intent but criticised the lack of deadlines, warning that citing the legislature through 2029 was premature, urging a 24-hour paediatric service, and pointing out gaps in intermediate care, surgery, and internal medicine, while stressing that Chaves Hospital needs at least 10 additional doctors.