Healthcare in Brazil

Healthcare in Brazil is available at both public and private institutions. Legal citizens and permanent residents can access free public healthcare at any government hospital. That said, the quality of service in the public healthcare sector tends to be below the standards you’d expect. If you can afford it, you’ll often want to get medical insurance and use private medical facilities instead.

Healthcare and Hospitals in Rio de Janeiro
Healthcare and Hospitals in São Paulo

Public healthcare in Brazil

Public hospitals in Brazil are decentralised, and their administrative responsibilities are separated at the state and municipal levels, with the federal government overseeing general policy. The Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) provides medical care, including hospitalisation, doctors’ visits, dentistry, maternity care, physical therapy and prescription medicines at no cost to patients.

Public hospitals in Brazil are generally overcrowded and underfunded. English-speaking doctors aren’t always available, particularly in hospitals outside the main metropolitan areas. Expats will need a National Health Identification card that’s available from any public healthcare facility. You’ll first need to obtain a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) tax identification number, then register at a local Basic Health Unit (UBS) with your CPF, proof of residence and identity documentation.

Visas and Residency in Brazil

Private healthcare in Brazil

While you’ll find private healthcare to be of a higher standard than public healthcare, it comes at a cost. Private healthcare in Brazil has earned the reputation of being among the most expensive in Latin America. You’re encouraged to secure private medical insurance to access private healthcare at a reasonable cost.

Thanks to the shorter waiting times, availability of English-speaking practitioners and excellent facilities, as well as medical equipment, private healthcare has gained popularity among expats in Brazil. The range of specialists available depends on the city. Larger cities have a variety of private practitioners to choose from, but fees are also higher. Smaller towns are cheaper, but there are fewer options.

Health insurance in Brazil

Due to the massive costs associated with private healthcare, health insurance is essential for expats in Brazil. There are a number of international health insurance companies for expats to choose from when looking for a healthcare plan in Brazil.

The amount expats will pay for their medical insurance will depend on the region they live in, the provider they choose and how comprehensive the coverage is. Some expats are lucky enough to have their health insurance covered by employers. Newcomers are encouraged to include an allowance during their contract negotiations.

Pharmacies in Brazil

There are many pharmacies in Brazil, particularly in the larger cities and towns. You can identify them by the green cross symbol displayed outside. Most general and prescription medicines are available at pharmacies. Some medications that are available over the counter in other countries may require a prescription in Brazil. The government continues to invest large amounts in the production of generic drugs to reduce the impact on consumers’ wallets.

Brazilian pharmacists tend to be knowledgeable and helpful. Pharmacies are generally open from early morning to well into the evening. Some pharmacies in the larger cities are open 24 hours a day.

Health hazards in Brazil

Mosquito-borne diseases are a significant risk in Brazil, particularly in tropical regions during the rainy season. Brazil had a severe dengue outbreak in 2024. There are no vaccines available for malaria or dengue fever, so make sure to take adequate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Outside major urban centres, food safety can also be an issue. Expats should be cautious and make sure that all food has been cooked through. Additionally, it’s recommended that expats stick to bottled or filtered water in most areas of the country.

Vaccinations for Brazil

The following vaccinations are typically recommended prior to travel to Brazil:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Rabies
• Yellow fever
• Routine MMR and tetanus vaccines

The above list is only a guide. Expats should consult with a medical professional prior to departure for further information on vaccinations for Brazil.

Emergency services in Brazil

A public ambulance service, SAMU, is available throughout the country. This is available to all residents and can be contacted at 192. Most major private hospitals also have their own ambulance services, which can be called directly in the case of an emergency.