Construction of functional related groups for an ambulatory rehabilitation system

Demographic changes and financial limitations are spreading great concern among health sectors. Levels of future demand for support on rehabilitation services will be affected by population ageing, disability prevalence and life expectancy. In Portugal in 2007, 617 outpatient rehabilitation providers divided between the public (15%) and the private sector (75%) were identified. Due to financial limitations, and to establish more equity in the distribution of resources, the Portuguese NHS is implementing new models of drawing up contracts for healthcare provision. Researchers were gathered to design a classification system for ambulatory rehabilitation care that addresses changes facing the public and private sectors.