Sabesp Workers Fear Service Cuts as Health Plan Shifts to Hapvida Notredame
São Paulo, Brazil – Sabesp workers are voicing concerns over a planned health insurance change to Hapvida Notredame, approved by the company’s Board of Directors last week and slated for implementation on November 1. The move has sparked a labor dispute, with the Sintaema union denouncing potential conflicts of interest and risks to service quality.
The controversy centers on Sabesp President Carlos Piani, who currently serves as an independent counselor for Hapvida with a mandate extending until August 2026. Union representatives question whether the health plan change prioritizes the well-being of Sabesp employees or Piani’s affiliation with Hapvida.
sintaema members have already authorized a strike and commissioned a consultancy to aid in negotiations, demanding further discussion regarding the terms of the transition. A key point of contention is a proposed differentiation in coverage between technical/operational staff and university-level employees, and also distinctions based on seniority.
“We do not agree with segregation and we want a better network proposal, with more reference hospitals,” stated Sintaema president José Faggian. “We have been looking for the company as April. We are concerned about restrictions on service and we will not accept damage to workers.”
According to a proposal presented on September 22,workers in inland and some coastal regions will continue to receive coverage through Unimed. Retirees currently with the Vivest Agreement will be transitioned to an exclusive contract within Hapvida.
Details of the proposed plan are available here: Novos_planos_de_saúde _Hapvida V8 Employees_210925.
Sintaema is planning a new assembly to further debate the changes with workers and encourages participation in sector meetings to stay informed.
