The 32nd National Congress of Internal Medicine (CNMI)

Under the theme “From the Algarve to the Future – Innovation in Internal Medicine”, the congress brought together approximately 1,500 participants from across Portugal, as well as several international delegates. The scientific programme featured around 260 speakers and moderators, participating in dozens of scientific sessions, round tables, keynote lectures, meet-the-expert sessions, and research presentations.

Held as part of the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the Portuguese Society of Internal Medicine, the congress sought not only to address the current challenges facing the specialty but also to shape its future, embracing the strategic vision expressed in the message “Being an Internist in 2030 Starts Here.” Throughout the event, the message “Proud to Be an Internist” was also prominently featured, reinforcing the value of the specialty and its central role in delivering increasingly differentiated and integrated healthcare.

A strong commitment to Portuguese scientific research was one of the defining features of this edition. More than 1,400 scientific abstracts were accepted and presented as oral communications, scientific posters, and clinical images, further consolidating the congress as the country's leading platform for the dissemination of research in Internal Medicine.

In addition to its scientific programme aimed at healthcare professionals, the congress also promoted two initiatives specifically designed for the local community of Lagoa, reinforcing Internal Medicine’s commitment to health literacy and community engagement. Through public health education sessions and opportunities for direct interaction between healthcare professionals and members of the public, the event sought to bring medical knowledge closer to citizens.

The 32nd National Congress of Internal Medicine had a highly positive impact on the municipality of Lagoa, bringing together hundreds of healthcare professionals, institutional partners, and organisations linked to the healthcare sector over several days. Beyond its significant scientific contribution, the congress also stimulated the local economy, benefiting the hospitality, restaurant, retail, and service sectors. Participants also had the opportunity to experience the region’s cultural heritage, hospitality, and gastronomy.

Feedback from delegates was overwhelmingly positive, with widespread recognition of the high quality of the venue, the excellence of the organisation, the warm welcome provided by the local community, and the outstanding conditions offered by Lagoa for hosting national scientific events."