Government Initiative to Expand specialized Healthcare Access Faces Initial Hurdles
A new government program aiming to leverage Brazil‘s private healthcare network to reduce wait times for specialized medical care is facing early challenges regarding implementation timelines and operator participation. Health Minister André Padilha initially announced consultations, examinations, and surgeries would begin in late August, but the Ministry of Health later revised this to September.
This initial proclamation was deemed “hasty” by SUS (Unified Health System) managers, who pointed out the program’s reliance on voluntary participation from private health plans and the ongoing need to analyse proposals. While the Ministry of Health launched a call for accreditation of health plans on August 11th, it has yet to officially confirm the adhesion of any operator, though it states Hapvida has been accredited. The Ministry declined to disclose which other operators have expressed interest or the scope of procedures they intend to offer.
hapvida, however, confirmed it was the first carrier to join the initiative, highlighting its extensive hospital network and capacity to support the program, starting with its Ariano Suassuna Hospital in Recife. They plan a phased rollout, expanding as the program gains momentum and adapting to local needs.
Beyond partnerships with health plans, the government is also pursuing agreements with individual hospitals and clinics, offering to exchange federal debts for services to the SUS. Currently, 130 establishments are under consideration. Further efforts include deploying mobile healthcare units to remote areas and expanding the integration of public health data, alongside a push to increase the number of specialists within the SUS itself.
Industry response has been largely positive. Gustavo Ribeiro, president of Abramge (Brazilian Association of health Plans), called the program’s launch and initial care provision ”relevant steps” towards integrating public and private healthcare. Fenasaúde (National Federation of Supplementary Health) echoed this sentiment, viewing the program as a positive initiative to reduce waiting lists and recognizing the complementary role of private healthcare in Brazil’s overall health system.
