Collaborative place-based health governance systems: stakeholders’ perceptions in the Portuguese Baixo Vouga sub-region

Abstract This study aimed to assess the Baixo Vouga sub-region (Portugal) governance system through 15 interviews with leaders of institutions with decision-making power and provide healthcare. The interviews were subjected to a content analysis, organized in matrices by cases, categories, subcategories, and indicators. Recording units were extracted from the interviews to produce data for each indicator. A Collaborative Place-based Governance Framework systematizing operational definitions of collaborative governance was implemented to serve as a benchmark for assessing the collaborative and place-based dimensions. The Baixo Vouga sub-Region governance system is collaborative because it is based on a shared structure of principles that translates into the services provided. It has a multilevel and multisector collaboration, and can undertake shared decisions. These dimensions could be reinforced through increased participation, autonomy, subsidiarity if more place-based information and practical knowledge were sought. The system would also benefit from an extensive adoption of bottom-up methods to formulate and implement policies.