• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
International Citizens Insurance
  • Home
  • Individual Plans
    ▼
    • International Health Insurance Plans
      ▼
      • Best Global Medical Insurance Companies
      • Student Insurance
      • Overseas Health Insurance
    • Expatriate Insurance
      ▼
      • Insurance for American Expats Abroad
      • Canadian Expats – Insurance and Overseas Health
      • Expat Insurance for Japanese Abroad
      • Expat Insurance for Germans Living Abroad
      • Expat insurance for Brazilian Citizens Abroad
    • Travel Insurance
      ▼
      • Travel Medical Insurance Plans
      • Visitors Insurance
      • Top 10 Travel Insurance Companies
      • Evacuation Insurance Plans
      • Trip Cancellation Insurance
      • Student Insurance
    • International Life Insurance
  • Group Plans
    ▼
    • Corporate and Employee Groups
    • Missionary Groups
    • Volunteer Programs and Non-Profits
    • School Groups
    • Top 10 Group Health Insurance Companies
  • Insurance Companies
    ▼
    • Cigna Global Insurance Company
      ▼
      • Cigna Close Care
      • Cigna Global Health Insurance
      • Cigna Healthguard
    • GeoBlue
      ▼
      • Xplorer Health Insurance Plan
      • Navigator Student Health Insurance
      • Voyager Travel Medical Insurance Plan
      • Trekker Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance
    • Integra Global
    • International Medical Group
      ▼
      • Global Medical Insurance Plan
      • Patriot Travel Insurance
      • GlobalFusion Health Insurance Plan
      • Student Health Advantage
      • Patriot Exchange – Insurance for Students
    • Now Health
      ▼
      • SimpleCare Health Plan
      • WorldCare Health Plan
    • Seven Corners
      ▼
      • Travel Insurance with COVID-19 Coverage
      • RoundTrip Cancellation Insurance for U.S. Residents
      • Wander Frequent Traveler Plus
    • Trawick International
      ▼
      • SafeTreker Travel Insurance Plan
    • Unisure Group
    • William Russell Insurance
      ▼
      • William Russell Life Insurance
      • William Russell Health Insurance
    • WorldTrips
      ▼
      • Atlas Travel Insurance
      • StudentSecure Insurance
  • Compare
    ▼
    • Compare Global Health Insurance Plans
    • Compare Travel Insurance Plans
  • Country Guides
    ▼
    • Health Insurance Plans in North and Central America
      ▼
      • Health Insurance in the USA
      • Health Insurance in Mexico
      • Health Insurance in Canada
    • Understanding Health Insurance in South America
      ▼
      • Health Insurance in Argentina
      • Health Insurance in Colombia for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Chile
    • European Health Insurance
      ▼
      • UK Health Insurance Plans for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Germany
      • French Health Insurance
      • Italian Health Insurance
      • Health Insurance in Sweden for Foreigners
      • Portuguese Health Insurance
      • Health Insurance in Spain for Foreigners
    • Health Insurance Plans in Asia
      ▼
      • Health Insurance in China
      • Health Insurance in Japan
      • Health Insurance in Dubai
      • Health Insurance in India
      • Thailand Health Insurance
      • Malaysian Health Insurance for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Singapore for Foreigners
    • Understanding Health Insurance in Oceania
      ▼
      • Australian Health Insurance for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in New Zealand
    • Health Insurance Options in Africa
      ▼
      • South Africa Health Insurance for Foreigners
    • Travel Insurance Plans by Country
      ▼
      • USA Travel Insurance
      • Australia Travel Insurance
      • Mexico Travel Insurance
  • Resources
    ▼
    • News, Global Health Advice, and Travel Tips
    • Insurance Articles
    • Travel Advice and Tips
    • Seniors Travel Insurance
    • International Hospitals for Expatriates
      ▼
      • Best Hospitals in the United States
      • Best International Hospitals in the UK
      • Best Hospitals in Mexico
Request a free international health care quote

Or call for a quote:
877-758-4881
+44 (20) 35450909

International Citizens Insurance

Medical and Travel Plans!

U.S. 877-758-4881 - Intl. +44 (20) 35450909

Request a Quote
  • Home
  • Individual Plans
    • International Health Insurance Plans
      • Best Global Medical Insurance Companies
      • Student Insurance
      • Overseas Health Insurance
    • Expatriate Insurance
      • Insurance for American Expats Abroad
      • Canadian Expats – Insurance and Overseas Health
      • Expat Insurance for Japanese Abroad
      • Expat Insurance for Germans Living Abroad
      • Expat insurance for Brazilian Citizens Abroad
    • Travel Insurance
      • Travel Medical Insurance Plans
      • Visitors Insurance
      • Top 10 Travel Insurance Companies
      • Evacuation Insurance Plans
      • Trip Cancellation Insurance
      • Student Insurance
    • International Life Insurance
  • Group Plans
    • Corporate and Employee Groups
    • Missionary Groups
    • Volunteer Programs and Non-Profits
    • School Groups
    • Top 10 Group Health Insurance Companies
  • Insurance Companies
    • Cigna Global Insurance Company
      • Cigna Close Care
      • Cigna Global Health Insurance
      • Cigna Healthguard
    • GeoBlue
      • Xplorer Health Insurance Plan
      • Navigator Student Health Insurance
      • Voyager Travel Medical Insurance Plan
      • Trekker Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance
    • Integra Global
    • International Medical Group
      • Global Medical Insurance Plan
      • Patriot Travel Insurance
      • GlobalFusion Health Insurance Plan
      • Student Health Advantage
      • Patriot Exchange – Insurance for Students
    • Now Health
      • SimpleCare Health Plan
      • WorldCare Health Plan
    • Seven Corners
      • Travel Insurance with COVID-19 Coverage
      • RoundTrip Cancellation Insurance for U.S. Residents
      • Wander Frequent Traveler Plus
    • Trawick International
      • SafeTreker Travel Insurance Plan
    • Unisure Group
    • William Russell Insurance
      • William Russell Life Insurance
      • William Russell Health Insurance
    • WorldTrips
      • Atlas Travel Insurance
      • StudentSecure Insurance
  • Compare
    • Compare Global Health Insurance Plans
    • Compare Travel Insurance Plans
  • Country Guides
    • Health Insurance Plans in North and Central America
      • Health Insurance in the USA
      • Health Insurance in Mexico
      • Health Insurance in Canada
    • Understanding Health Insurance in South America
      • Health Insurance in Argentina
      • Health Insurance in Colombia for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Chile
    • European Health Insurance
      • UK Health Insurance Plans for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Germany
      • French Health Insurance
      • Italian Health Insurance
      • Health Insurance in Sweden for Foreigners
      • Portuguese Health Insurance
      • Health Insurance in Spain for Foreigners
    • Health Insurance Plans in Asia
      • Health Insurance in China
      • Health Insurance in Japan
      • Health Insurance in Dubai
      • Health Insurance in India
      • Thailand Health Insurance
      • Malaysian Health Insurance for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in Singapore for Foreigners
    • Understanding Health Insurance in Oceania
      • Australian Health Insurance for Foreigners
      • Health Insurance in New Zealand
    • Health Insurance Options in Africa
      • South Africa Health Insurance for Foreigners
    • Travel Insurance Plans by Country
      • USA Travel Insurance
      • Australia Travel Insurance
      • Mexico Travel Insurance
  • Resources
    • News, Global Health Advice, and Travel Tips
    • Insurance Articles
    • Travel Advice and Tips
    • Seniors Travel Insurance
    • International Hospitals for Expatriates
      • Best Hospitals in the United States
      • Best International Hospitals in the UK
      • Best Hospitals in Mexico
Home > International Plans > Global Health Insurance > Countries with Best Healthcare Systems in the World > Healthcare System in Brazil

Healthcare Systems in Brazil – Sistema Único de Saúde

The Brazilian Healthcare System Explained

Healthcare Systems in BrazilThe healthcare system in Brazil is made up of both private and government institutions. The Brazilian public healthcare system is known as the “United Health System” or SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde.) and healthcare is a constitutional right. Prior to reforms in 1988, only citizens who contributed to the social security system were able to receive public healthcare services. Today, the SUS is free and universal to all.

Brazilians are understandably proud of their healthcare system. By several measures, the SUS is the largest government-run and publicly administered healthcare system in the world. It has more users, covers more geographic territory in terms of continuous land mass, and has more clinics and treatment centers than any other similar system in the world. Considering the sheer size of its operations, the SUS performs admirably but it still struggles with significant challenges.

Who is Eligible for Healthcare in Brazil

If you are a legal resident of Brazil, you can participate in the SUS. It’s not a legal requirement to do so, and nobody has to have a health-card if they don’t want one. However, it’s well worth it to do so. Even for people who carry additional supplemental private coverage, there may be times when it’s more convenient to visit a public hospital.

Anyone who plans to travel to Brazil as a tourist will be pleased to know that, under the SUS, emergency care cannot be refused to anyone, even visitors. However, this generosity only extends to true emergencies. Problems with pre-existing conditions, for instance, aren’t covered. Nor are non-emergency situations (such as a broken ankle) which still require prompt medical treatment. All tourists should have travel medical insurance. Between Brazil’s beaches, wildlife, and festivals, it’s good to be prepared!

Brazilian Healthcare Options for Expats and Foreigners

Most major urban centers in Brazil have at least one private hospital, and there are generally many more in popular tourist destinations. English-speaking general practitioners are not always readily available, however. It is rare to find English speaking support staff, such as administrators and receptionists, even in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Your insurance provider, your hotel concierge, and your embassy can all help recommend English speaking facilities.

Read: Health Insurance for Brazilian Expats Living Abroad

Costs of the Healthcare System in Brazil

There are no costs associated with using the Brazilian SUS services. The system is primarily funded by the government through indirect taxes and other forms of revenue. Patients do not pay for a percentage of their medical appointments or hospital visits. However, they must bring their identification card and SUS card with them to all appointments. If they fail to do so, they could be liable for the cost of the visit.

Private health coverage, which many Brazilians use to augment the SUS services, is not so frugal-friendly and private plans are among the most expensive in Latin America. Insurance can cost 20-30% more in Brazil than similar coverage in nearby countries.

While private international medical insurance is designed to cover visits to private hospitals and clinics, that doesn’t mean that patients don’t have to worry about money. Private hospitals normally require a large deposit upon admission and you must apply for reimbursement from your provider. It sounds harsh but hospitals don’t trust in patients to pay their considerable bill in full once their treatment is done! Carrying the health insurance card your company issues is important. Private hospitals like to see it because it serves as a guarantee of reimbursement of most charges. It can also minimize the deposit you have to pay.

Read: Health Insurance in Brazil for Foreigners

Generate a Quote for Private Health Coverage

The cost of an international health insurance plan can vary widely based on your age, the benefits desired and other factors. Here is more information on one option and a link to request a quote.

Cigna Global Logo

Cigna Global Insurance Plan

  • The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
  • Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
  • The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
Plan Details | View Brochure
Plan Details
Get a Quote

 

The Differences Between Private and Public Care

Approximately 80% of the public relies on SUS for healthcare and approximately 25% of people hold private policies. People who use the SUS system pay nothing for doctors’ fees, lab fees, hospitalization, surgery, or prescription drugs. Though foreigners who are legal residents have coverage through the SUS, the majority of them opt for private health plans to enhance their care. It’s not that the government-funded hospitals and clinics in Brazil don’t offer high-quality medical services but most foreigners are used to a higher standard of care and comfort.

Due to Brazil’s huge geographic territory, it makes sense that the public hospital system relies on a large network of small hospitals. In fact, over 55% of public hospitals have fewer than 50 beds. This large network of small hospitals makes accessing healthcare easier for the average Brazilian. There are low transportation costs and the patient is closer to their family. However, in many cases, the small public facilities are not as comfortable, private, or technologically advanced many private hospitals. Also, as there is no cost associated with visiting, small hospitals are usually crowded. Wait times may be extensive, especially in regions that struggle to attract nurses and doctors.

Read: Private Health Insurance Providers in South America

Challenges and Changes, Challenges in Brazilian Health Services

Brazil’s healthcare system is slowly, steadily improving. Once ranked 125th in the world, the system is turning things around for several key indicators of health. For instance, UNICEF singled out Brazil as one of the world’s best improvers in a report in 2008. Infant mortality rates have decreased 60 percent since 1990 and malnutrition among children under two years old between 2000-2008 fell by 77 percent.

At a national level, the Ministry of Health is responsible for primary healthcare. However, administering certain elements of primary healthcare is the responsibility of individual states. Among the states, there is a tremendous disparity in terms of resources, organization, proper allocation of resources, and medical facilities. The creation of health “consortia”, which pools the resources of several adjacent states for the common good, is one approach towards ending this disparity among the states.

Emergency services still lack a consistent standard of care. The Brazilian emergency medical service is called SAMU (Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência – Mobile Emergency Attendance Service). In smaller hospitals, which make up the majority of hospitals in the country, emergency department physicians are largely under-trained and overstressed. This crisis is further exacerbated by differences in quality of care among the states. The system has struggled with the increasing number of victims of road traffic accidents and violence, as well as the overcrowding of emergency departments. The chaos of Brazil’s public emergency rooms makes a strong argument in favor of holding private health coverage. You will receive more comfortable, private, secure, and comprehensive care at a non-public facility.

Read: Health Insurance in Brazil for Foreigners

Also Read:

  • Healthcare System in the United States
  • Health Insurance for Expatriates Living Abroad
  • Ministry of Health: Resources
  • World Health Organization: Brazil statistics
  • Red Cross Brazil: Safety information
  • Sistema Único de Saúde
Share this

Primary Sidebar

Search Website

Related Pages

  • Australian Healthcare System
  • Canadian Health Care System
  • Chile’s Healthcare System
  • Colombia Healthcare System
  • Egyptian Healthcare System
  • French Healthcare System
  • German Healthcare System – GKV
  • Health Care System in China
  • Healthcare in The Netherlands
  • Healthcare in the Philippines
  • Healthcare System in Finland
  • Healthcare System in Guatemala
  • Healthcare System in Spain
  • Hungary’s Healthcare System
  • Irish Healthcare System
  • Italian Healthcare System
  • Mexico’s Healthcare System
  • New Zealand Healthcare System
  • Sweden’s Healthcare System
  • The Health Care System in the USA
  • The Panama Healthcare System
  • The United Kingdom Healthcare System
  • Understanding Dubai’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding India’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding Indonesia’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding Malaysia’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding Russia’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding Singapore’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding South Africa’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding Switzerland’s Healthcare System
  • Understanding the Costa Rican Healthcare System
  • Understanding the Healthcare System in Portugal
  • Understanding the Healthcare System in Thailand
  • Understanding the Japanese Healthcare System
  • Vietnam’s Healthcare System

International Citizens Insurance

Offering the best international health and travel insurance plans.

Pick a Plan


We Contact You

One of our expert international insurance brokers will respond to you promptly.

Request a Quote Today

Get a fast, free, expat insurance quote.

Request a Quote

Footer

Global Medical Plans

International Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health
GeoBlue Xplorer Premier
IMG Global Medical
Now Health International
William Russell
Travel Medical Plans

Specialty Coverage

Overseas Health Insurance
US Citizens Abroad
US Health Insurance
Senior Travel Insurance
Visitors Insurance Coverage
Nomad Travel Insurance
Annual Multi Trip

Company Info

About Us
The Team
International Brokers
Testimonials
Agents / Affiliates
Group Services

Customer Service

United States 877-758-4881
US Direct 617-500-6738
International +44 (20) 35450909
US Travel Insurance Association Member International Citizens Insurance Business Review

18 Shipyard Drive, Hingham, MA 02043 USA | info@internationalinsurance.com

Contact US | Privacy Policy | Licensing | Sitemap

Copyright © 2023, International Citizens Insurance, an International Citizens Group, Inc. company


Note: Covid-19, or Coronavirus, coverage is not included in all plans offered on this website. Please indicate your desire for this coverage when working with your agent.
International Citizens Insurance is a licensed agency providing guidance on international insurance plans. Select products and services listed on this site may not be available to citizens or residents of certain countries.
This site provides consolidated and summary descriptions of insurance plans, benefits, conditions, limitations, and exclusions. A certificate containing the complete certificate wording with all terms, conditions, and exclusions will be provided at the time of purchase or upon request. For additional advice and guidance, contact us for assistance.
International Citizens Insurance is a subsidiary of International Citizens Group, Inc. In the State of California, operating as International Citizens Insurance Agency. California Non-Resident Producer License Number: 6005545.

By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies.