Brazil is a popular destination for expats and visitors from all walks of life. The natural beauty, vibrant culture, and economic opportunities are just a few factors that attract expats to the country.
For those considering moving there, it’s also reassuring to know that Brazil is home to some of the best hospitals in South America. Therefore, they are likely to receive high-quality care should they need it in the event of an emergency or illness.
Whether you’re a long-term expat or a short-term visitor, this article will help you understand how to access hospitals in Brazil and where to find the best ones for foreigners in the country.
Does Brazil Have Good Hospitals?
Luckily for expats and visitors to Brazil, the country has some of the best hospitals in all of South America. In fact, Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals 2024 ranking includes six hospitals in Brazil, which is more than any other South American country.
In addition, 25 hospitals in Brazil are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a US-based non-profit that is internationally recognized for improving the quality and safety of patient care around the world. Brazilian hospitals also work with international medical institutes to share knowledge and research, ensuring you get high-quality care across the country.
Brazil has over 6,000 hospitals. About 60% of these hospitals are private, while the rest are public, run by the federal, state, or municipal governments. Staff at Brazilian hospitals are also well-trained and equipped to work with international patients which is reassuring for expats looking to travel or relocate there, as well as visitors to the country.
Read More: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Brazil
Brazilian hospitals excel in holistic, patient-centered care, and the country’s universal public healthcare system works hard to ensure that high-quality care is available to everyone. Many hospitals also focus on helping their communities and have started using telemedicine to reach areas that need more medical services. So whether you’re in Brazil for a short visit or have permanently moved to the country, you can be sure that high-quality medical care is easy to find.
Interestingly, Brazil is well known for its expertise in plastic surgery, with many American physicians receiving training from Brazilian doctors. In addition to offering excellent cosmetic surgery, you can also expect to receive top care when it comes to general surgery, community wellness, skin treatments, and fertility treatments.
How Can Expats and Visitors Access Hospitals in Brazil?
The healthcare system in Brazil is made up of both private and government institutions. The Brazilian public healthcare system is known as the “Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS)” or United Health System. Healthcare is a constitutional right and all residents of Brazil, including foreigners with the appropriate visas, can participate in the SUS.
There are no costs associated with using the public system in Brazil. Coverage is universal and people who use the system don’t need to pay for doctor’s fees, lab fees, hospitalization, surgery, or prescription drugs. Under SUS, you also have direct access to primary care and emergency services. However, referrals are required for accessing outpatient specialties and hospitals. It is important to note that you must bring your ID card and SUS card to all appointments or you may be liable to pay for your visits.
Unlike public hospitals, private facilities do charge fees. Most of these will require you to put down a large deposit when you check in to ensure you will pay for any services received. You will then need to apply for reimbursement from your insurance provider after your visit. Notably, if you bring proof of international health insurance with you to the hospital, you can usually minimize the deposit you have to pay.
The Best Health Insurance Plan for Expats in Brazil
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
The Best Health Insurance Plan for US Citizens Living in Brazil
Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan
- Premium Benefits, Coverage and Service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For Foreigners in the US or US citizens abroad
What Are the Best Hospitals in Brazil?
The following hospitals are all accredited by the JCI and offer services in English for international patients. The rankings are based on an online survey of over 85,000 medical experts and patient surveys about their satisfaction after leaving the hospital. The score also includes measures such as cleanliness and the number of patients per doctor.
Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein
Israelita Albert Einstein was the first hospital in Latin America to receive the Planetree designation for prioritizing patient-centered and holistic care. The hospital is non-profit and has a special department to assist and support international patients. Additionally, it’s one of the few hospitals in South America to have the Da Vinci robot assist with surgeries.
Address: Avenida Albert Einstein, 627/701, Morumbi, São Paulo - SP, 05651-901
Phone: +55 11 2151 1301
Email: international@einstein.br
Hospital Sirio Libanês
Hospital Sírio Libanês is known for its state-of-the-art technology and specialized centers of excellence in various medical fields such as oncology, cardiology, and neurology. It has an exclusive department to serve international clients, with support available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Japanese. The hospital is affiliated with over 60 different international health insurance plans.
Address: Rua Dona Adma Jafet, 91 Bela Vista, São Paulo - SP, 01308-050
Phone: +55 11 3394 0200
Email: international@hsl.org.
Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz
Alemão Oswaldo Cruz is one of the most recognized healthcare institutions in Brazil. It has Certificates of Excellence in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery and telemedicine services. These certificates are awarded for high-quality facilities, equipment, and comprehensive patient care.
Address: 1815 Treze de Maio Street, Paraíso / São Paulo - SP, 01323-903
Phone: +55 11 3549-1000
Email: international@haoc.com.br
Hospital Moinhos de Vento
Hospital Moinhos de Vento is the only hospital in the southern Rio Grande do Sul region of Brazil that holds a JCI accreditation. The Ministry of Health named it one of the six 'Hospitals of Excellence' in the country. Moinhos de Vento emphasizes collaboration among its providers to deliver comprehensive patient care.
Address: Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 910, Moinhos de Vento, Porto Alegre - RS, 90035-000
Phone/WhatsApp: +55 51 3314-3434
Hospital Santa Catarina Paulista
Santa Catarina Paulista holds an Excellence in Healthcare certificate from the ONA, Brazil's National Accreditation Organization, and has also been recognized for its telemedicine services. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, offering emotional support and clear lines of communication between patients and families.
Address: Av. Paulista, 200, Bela Vista, São Paulo - SP, 01310-000
Phone: +55 11 3016-4133
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Recommended Hospitals for Expats in Brazil
The best hospitals in Brazil are located in São Paulo, which is the most populous city in the country. That said, you will find that most hospitals across the country offer a high level of care. The following hospitals are all recognized as the best in their cities.
Hospitals in Rio de Janeiro
Hospital Quinta D'Or
Address: R. Alm. Baltazar, 435 - São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20941-150
Phone: +55 21 3461-3682
WhatsApp: +55 21 2272-3053
Hospital Barra D'Or
Address: Av. Ayrton Senna, 3079 - Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22775-002
Phone: +55 21 2430-3600
WhatsApp: +55 21 2272-3053
Hospitals in Porto Alegre
Hospital Mãe de Deus
Address: R. José de Alencar, 286, Menino Deus, Porto Alegre - RS, 90880-481
Phone: +55 51 3230-6000
WhatsApp: +55 51 3230-6001
Hospital Divina Providência
Address: R. da Gruta, 145 - Glória, Porto Alegre - RS, 91712-160
Phone: +55 51 3320-6000
Hospitals in Salvador
Hospital Aliança
Address: Av. Juracy Magalhães Júnior, 2096 - Rio Vermelho, Salvador - BA, 41920-180
Phone: +55 71 2108-5600
HJV Hospital Jorge Valente
Address: Av. Anita Garibaldi, 2135 - Rio Vermelho, Salvador - BA, 41940-450
Phone: +55 71 3203-4333
Email: ouvidoria@hjv.com.br
Hospitals in Brasilia
Hospital Santa Lúcia Sul
Address: SHLS 716, Conj. C - Asa Sul, Brasília - DF, 70390-700
Phone: +55 61 3445-0000
Hospital Santa Luzia
Address: SHLS 716, Conjunto E, Lote 05 - Asa Sul, Brasília - DF, 70390-903
Phone: +55 (61) 3445-6000
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Author: Elizabeth Baugh is a content editor at International Citizens Insurance. She is writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness topics. With over a decade of international living and travel experience, Elizabeth is an expert in the realms of international travel, moving abroad, insurance, and immigration.