Brazil is a popular destination for expats and visitors from all walks of life. The natural beauty, vibrant culture, and economic opportunities are just a few factors that attract expats to the country.
For those considering moving there, it’s also reassuring to know that Brazil is home to some of the best hospitals in South America. Therefore, they are likely to receive high-quality care should they need it in the event of an emergency or illness.
Whether you’re a long-term expat or a short-term visitor, this article will help you understand how to access hospitals in Brazil and where to find the best ones for foreigners in the country.
Luckily for expats and visitors to Brazil, the country has some of the best hospitals in all of South America. In fact, Newsweek’s 2024 ranking of the World’s Best Hospitals includes six hospitals in Brazil, more than any other country in South America.
Additionally, 25 hospitals in Brazil are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a US-based nonprofit organization internationally recognized for improving the quality and safety of patient care worldwide.
Brazilian hospitals also collaborate with international medical institutes to share knowledge and research, ensuring that you receive high-quality care throughout the country.
Brazil has over 6,000 hospitals. Approximately 60% of these hospitals are private, while the remaining 40% are public, operated by federal, state, or municipal governments.
Staff at Brazilian hospitals are also well-trained and equipped to work with international patients, which is reassuring for expats looking to travel or relocate there, as well as visitors to the country.
Many hospitals also focus on helping their communities and have begun using telemedicine to reach areas that require additional medical services.
Whether you’re in Brazil for a short visit or have permanently relocated to the country, you can be assured that high-quality medical care is readily available.
Interestingly, Brazil is well known for its expertise in plastic surgery, with many American physicians receiving training from Brazilian doctors.
In addition to offering excellent cosmetic surgery, you can also expect to receive top-notch care in general surgery, community wellness, skin treatments, and fertility treatments.
How Can Expats and Visitors Access Hospitals in Brazil?
The healthcare system in Brazil comprises both private and public institutions. The Brazilian public healthcare system is known as the “Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS)” or United Health System.
Healthcare is a constitutional right, and all residents of Brazil, including foreigners with the appropriate visas, are eligible to participate in the SUS.
It is essential to bring your ID card and SUS card to all appointments; failure to do so may result in you being liable for the cost of your visits.
Unlike public hospitals, private facilities do charge fees. Most of these will require you to put down a large deposit when you check in, ensuring you will pay for any services received.
You will then need to apply for reimbursement from your insurance provider after your visit. Notably, if you bring proof of international health insurance to the hospital, you can usually minimize the deposit required.
The Best Health Insurance Plans for Expats in Brazil
The following hospitals are all accredited by the JCI and offer services in English for international patients.
The rankings are based on an online survey of over 85,000 medical experts and patient surveys about their satisfaction after leaving the hospital.
The score also includes measures such as cleanliness and the number of patients assigned to each doctor.
Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein
Israelita Albert Einstein was the first hospital in Latin America to receive the Planetree designation for prioritizing patient-centered and holistic care. The hospital is a non-profit organization and has a dedicated department to assist and support international patients. Additionally, it’s one of the few hospitals in South America to utilize the Da Vinci robot for surgical assistance.
Address: Avenida Albert Einstein, 627/701, Morumbi, São Paulo – SP, 05651-901 Phone: +55 11 2151 1301 Email: international@einstein.br
Hospital Sirio Libanês
Hospital Sírio Libanês is renowned for its state-of-the-art technology and specialized centers of excellence in various medical fields, including oncology, cardiology, and neurology. It has an exclusive department to serve international clients, with support available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese. The hospital is affiliated with over 60 different international health insurance plans.
Address: Rua Dona Adma Jafet, 91 Bela Vista, São Paulo – SP, 01308-050 Phone: +55 11 3394 0200 Email: international@hsl.org.
Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz
Alemão Oswaldo Cruz is one of the most recognized healthcare institutions in Brazil. It holds Certificates of Excellence in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, as well as in telemedicine services. These certificates are awarded for high-quality facilities, equipment, and comprehensive patient care.
Address: 1815 Treze de Maio Street, Paraíso / São Paulo – SP, 01323-903 Phone: +55 11 3549-1000 Email: international@haoc.com.br
Hospital Moinhos de Vento
Hospital Moinhos de Vento is the only hospital in the southern Rio Grande do Sul region of Brazil that holds a JCI accreditation. The Ministry of Health named it one of the six ‘Hospitals of Excellence’ in the country. Moinhos de Vento emphasizes collaboration among its providers to deliver comprehensive patient care.
Address: Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 910, Moinhos de Vento, Porto Alegre – RS, 90035-000 Phone/WhatsApp: +55 51 3314-3434
Hospital Santa Catarina Paulista
Santa Catarina Paulista holds an Excellence in Healthcare certificate from the ONA, Brazil’s National Accreditation Organization, and has also been recognized for its telemedicine services. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, offering emotional support and clear lines of communication between patients and families.
Address: Av. Paulista, 200, Bela Vista, São Paulo – SP, 01310-000 Phone: +55 11 3016-4133
The best hospitals in Brazil are primarily located in São Paulo, the country’s most populous city. That said, you will find that most hospitals across the country offer a high level of care.
The following hospitals are all recognized as the best in their cities.
Hospitals in Rio de Janeiro
Hospital Quinta D’Or Address: R. Alm. Baltazar, 435 – São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20941-150 Phone: +55 21 3461-3682 WhatsApp: +55 21 2272-3053
Hospital Barra D’Or Address: Av. Ayrton Senna, 3079 – Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22775-002 Phone: +55 21 2430-3600 WhatsApp: +55 21 2272-3053
Hospitals in Porto Alegre
Hospital Mãe de Deus Address: R. José de Alencar, 286, Menino Deus, Porto Alegre – RS, 90880-481 Phone: +55 51 3230-6000 WhatsApp: +55 51 3230-6001
Hospital Divina Providência Address: R. da Gruta, 145 – Glória, Porto Alegre – RS, 91712-160 Phone: +55 51 3320-6000
Hospitals in Salvador
Hospital Aliança Address: Av. Juracy Magalhães Júnior, 2096 – Rio Vermelho, Salvador – BA, 41920-180 Phone: +55 71 2108-5600
HJV Hospital Jorge Valente Address: Av. Anita Garibaldi, 2135 – Rio Vermelho, Salvador – BA, 41940-450 Phone: +55 71 3203-4333 Email: ouvidoria@hjv.com.br
Hospitals in Brasilia
Hospital Santa Lúcia Sul Address: SHLS 716, Conj. C – Asa Sul, Brasília – DF, 70390-700 Phone: +55 61 3445-0000
Hospital Santa Luzia Address: SHLS 716, Conjunto E, Lote 05 – Asa Sul, Brasília – DF, 70390-903 Phone: +55 (61) 3445-6000
Elizabeth Baugh is a versatile freelance writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness. She has international experience living in multiple countries, is fluent in Spanish, and holds a license as a TEFL teacher, sharing insights on travel and relocation.
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