Health Insurers Report Record Profits Amidst Consumer Outcry Over Abusive Rate Hikes
BRASILIA – Brazil’s health insurance sector is facing mounting criticism as operators report soaring profits while simultaneously imposing what consumer advocates call “abusive readjustments” to plan costs. recent data reveals a stark contrast between industry financial gains and the increasing financial strain on policyholders, notably the elderly and those requiring continuous treatment.According to figures released by the National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS),the sector’s profits reached billions in the first half of 20251,yet consumers are grappling with rate increases often lacking transparent justification. While collective adhesion plans are not directly limited by ANS indices, RN 509/22 mandates operators demonstrate the necessity of any adjustments through detailed actuarial calculations. Though,reports indicate operators frequently apply arbitrary percentages without providing the required technical basis,effectively transferring risk onto consumers.
The required transparency,as outlined by legislation,demands operators provide detailed documentation including the technical criteria for readjustments,a complete calculation memory,the observation period used,and the methodology and data employed. Despite these requirements, transparency remains a meaningful issue.
The situation is exacerbated by the dwindling availability of individual health plans2, leaving many consumers with limited options – accept the increases or risk losing coverage. This vulnerability has prompted concerns about “reverse predatory litigation,” as warned by STJ Minister Herman Benjamin, where large companies disregard judicial decisions and legal mandates.
“Regulatory failures expose consumers to abusive price increases, reaching the elderly population more dramatically,” the Federal Court of Auditors recently observed.
Advocates argue that health coverage should not be treated solely as a commodity driven by profit, and are calling for urgent regulatory correction to address the imbalance and ensure fair readjustments. The struggle, thay say, is not merely a legal dispute, but a matter of social justice.
1 https://www.gov.br/ans/pt-br/assuntos/noticias/numeros-do-setor/ans-divulga-dados-economico-financeiros-do-1deg-semestre-de-2025
2 https://oglobo.globo.com/economia/defesa-do-consumidor/plano-de-saude-individual-mais-raro-caro-15848792
