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NHS and Portuguese Social Security

5 years ago
I signed up with the NHS in Olhao but recently moved to Tavira. I went to the Centro de Saude to change my registration. I had a Certificado de Residencia from the Freguesia showing my Tavira address. The change was a simple process.
I am an Australian citizen with Temporary Residency in Portugal. I receive Social Security payments from Australia. I was asked at Centro de Saude if I had a Portuguese Social Security number, which I don't, as I was not aware of any reason to have one. I was told that if I left my SS based in Australia I would have to pay 75 Euros every time I visited the Centro de Saude.
Is this a new feature of the NHS?
Does it apply in cities other than Tavira?
Are there any downsides to switching SS registration to Portugal? (For example is there an impact on the NHR tax benefit?)
If I switch to Portuguese SS who makes the payments to me? Does Australia continue to pay them or does Portugal?
I would like to hear from anyone who has signed up for Portuguese SS and the reasons for so doing.. And / or any references to articles on the issue would be appreciated.
Geoff
PS I incorrectly posted this separately as an Article.

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