Brazil’s Medical System Combines Public and Private Care
Brazilians are understandably proud of the health services their government provides. By any measure, Brazil has the world’s most extensive publicly administered healthcare system, covering the largest number of people and occupying the largest landmass. This system has significantly improved the country’s overall health since its inception in 1988.
However, Brazil’s healthcare system has its issues, including overcrowding and lengthy wait times. That’s why many people in Brazil, including most expats, get care from both private and government healthcare settings.
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Pros & Cons of Medical Care in Brazil
Brazil’s public healthcare system serves the entire country, covering everything from primary care to hospitalization and physical therapy.
Yet, public hospitals, clinics, and doctors can be overwhelmed by the needs of patients.
Pros of Brazil’s Healthcare System
- Healthcare is a constitutional right in Brazil.
- Services are available at no cost to everyone in the country.
- Investments in primary healthcare have lessened health inequities throughout the country.
- Brazil has a high vaccination rate and operates a large-scale program to administer COVID-19 vaccines nationwide.
- The government plans to bring more providers to underserved areas.
Cons of Brazil’s Healthcare System
- Public healthcare facilities are often overcrowded.
- Public healthcare settings can lack up-to-date medical equipment.
- Patients regularly experience long wait times for care.
- Rural areas have less access to quality healthcare.
- Limited quantities of some medications have led to rationing.
- The quality of emergency care services can be inconsistent, particularly in smaller hospitals.
Does Brazil Have Universal Healthcare?
Yes, the Brazilian public healthcare system, known as the “United Health System” or SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), is available to all residents of Brazil.
Taxes cover healthcare costs, and patients do not have to pay for any care they receive. Available care includes:
- Visits to specialists and general practitioners
- Maternity care
- Vaccinations
- Lab tests
- Mental health services
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
- Prescription drug coverage (for approved medications)
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Medical equipment
The Best Health Insurance in Brazil for US Citizens
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
The Best Health Insurance in Brazil for Non-US Expats
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
How to Access & Receive Healthcare in Brazil
Your National Migratory Registry Card and taxpayer number (“Cadastro de Pessoa Física,” or CPF) will let you sign up for a National Health Card (CNS). This card allows you to visit public hospitals and care providers at no cost.
You can register for it at a municipal health office, a hospital, or a clinic, and your card will be issued the same day. Register online ahead of your visit to speed up the process.
How to Get Emergency Care
- If you need an ambulance, call 192.
- Expect overcrowding and stressed physicians at the emergency departments in public hospitals.
- Go to a private facility for emergency care to avoid crowds and lengthy wait times.
Language Barriers in Healthcare
- In major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, English-speaking care providers are common.
- In more rural areas, doctors and other healthcare professionals may only speak Portuguese.
- If your Portuguese isn’t great and you don’t have someone who can translate, ask your private insurance provider, your embassy, or the staff at a local hotel if they can recommend English-speaking facilities. Many of the global health plans we offer include translation services.
Costs in the Brazilian Healthcare System
Using public Brazilian healthcare services will not cost you anything, as long as you have your identification and CNS card.
And keep in mind that there are limits on what Brazil’s SUS covers. For example, if a medication isn’t on the approved list, you’ll be expected to pay for it yourself.
Private international medical insurance is designed to cover visits to private hospitals and clinics. Check with your insurer before visiting any private healthcare setting to see if the facility is part of your insurance network.
Keep in mind that both in-network and out-of-network facilities may require you to pay for services upfront, then get reimbursed by your insurer.
Differences Between Public and Private Healthcare in Brazil
The public system has an extensive network of small hospitals that care for patients. This makes sense when you consider the vast size of Brazil. Having a nearby small hospital makes it easier for the average Brazilian to access care.
Government-funded hospitals and clinics in Brazil almost always provide good medical care. But the quality does vary between regions.
Patients can experience long wait times to access public healthcare, especially in rural areas with limited resources, such as fewer nurses and doctors. Plus, public facilities are often overcrowded.
Many people in Brazil have private health insurance that they use in addition to public care. With private insurance, you can skip the crowds and get care when you really need it.
Most major urban centers in Brazil have at least one private hospital; there are generally many more in popular tourist destinations.
Having private coverage doesn’t mean you’ll only receive private care. You can visit public hospitals at your convenience.
Healthcare for Expats in Brazil
Foreigners in Brazil can access both public and private healthcare. The public system offers numerous benefits, including lower costs.
However, don’t forget that there are reasons why more than a quarter of the population has some form of private health insurance.
Relying solely on public healthcare means putting up with treatment delays and risking medication shortages.
Are Foreigners Eligible for Brazilian Healthcare?
Any expat living in Brazil can use the public healthcare system. Plus, there’s no waiting period to join SUS, the public healthcare system.
You can even register right at a doctor’s office or hospital, as long as you have your CPF taxpayer number and your National Migratory Registry Card.
Traveling to Brazil as a tourist? You’ll be pleased to know that even if you haven’t registered for SUS, you’ll still receive treatment should you experience a medical emergency.
However, all short-term visitors should consider travel medical insurance so they can visit private facilities or be medically evacuated without worrying about overwhelming costs.
It’s easy to twist an ankle dancing at a Brazilian festival or get too much sun at one of the country’s beautiful beaches.
If you’re traveling off the beaten path, you might find yourself up close and personal with Brazil’s wildlife. Whatever is on your itinerary, it’s good to be prepared!
Expat Insurance for Brazil
Many expats choose to supplement SUS coverage with private international health insurance. That way, they can avoid long waits in crowded rooms and visit private providers and hospitals without worrying about the cost of the visit.
Would you like to learn more about your options? Health insurance in Brazil for foreigners helps you compare top plans and find the right coverage for your specific situation.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Sara Kettler is a seasoned freelance writer and Dartmouth graduate who has lived in Japan, France, the UK, and Australia. She shares insights on international relocation, including healthcare, culture, and local laws, helping readers navigate life abroad with ease.
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