DGS has for a mission to regulate, guide and coordinate the activities of health promotion and disease prevention, to set the technical conditions for adequate healthcare, to plan and programme the national policy for quality in the health system, as well as to prepare and assure the execution of the National Health Plan and to coordinate the international relations of the Ministry of Health.

DGS’ view is a healthier population, thus contributing to effective health gains, in a sustainable approach.
DGS fulfills its mission abiding the following set of values:

• Ethics, strictness and competence;
• Focus on citizens;
• Transparence and responsibility;
• Access, equity and adequacy in healthcare;
• Sustainability in the health system;
• Cooperation and transverseness.