Innovate and Inspire – Because Recognition Drives Transformation 

The Health AI Innovation Awards Portugal recognise Artificial Intelligence projects applied to healthcare that demonstrate real impact within the Portuguese health system. The initiative, jointly promoted by HealthTech Portugal and Digital Health Portugal, in collaboration with HealthTech Lisbon and the Health Data Forum, is based on a National Scorecard for Best Practices in AI Implementation, which evaluates clinical impact, technological maturity, ethics, interoperability, and contribution to the National Health Service (SNS).

The Health AI Innovation Awards Portugal were publicly presented at the HumAI Results event, highlighting their origins in a space of dialogue, critical reflection, and responsible innovation in digital health.

Excellence in AI Applied to Healthcare

Recognises Artificial Intelligence projects that demonstrate proven clinical impact, measurable improvements in care delivery, and the responsible use of technology in support of healthcare professionals and patients.

Best Practices in AI Implementation

Recognises initiatives that demonstrate maturity in the real-world implementation of Artificial Intelligence, including data governance, interoperability, ethics, security, team engagement, and long-term sustainability.

Significant Contribution to the National Health Service (SNS)

Recognises projects that generate tangible benefits for the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS), promoting efficiency, equity, scalability, and alignment with national and regional health priorities.

Strategic Framework

The Health AI Innovation Awards Portugal are a direct outcome of the Think Tank Saúde Sustentável 2026,  integrating the work developed by participating organisations and translating it into an objective system for evaluating best practices in the implementation of Artificial Intelligence within the healthcare system.

This initiative aligns with the Data First, AI Later movement, which advocates adopting AI on a strong data foundation, with sound governance, digital maturity, and trust before large-scale technological deployment. The Awards' scorecard is inspired by international principles of responsible governance, ethics, interoperability, and real-world impact, promoting the use of AI in alignment with the public interest and the sustainability of the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS).