Brazil Health Insurance

The Federative Republic of Brazil declared independence from Portugal in 1822, which was officially recognized in 1825. It became a republic in 1889, and formed its current constitution in 1988. The origin of the term Brazil is connected to brazilwood, which was common to the region, but the source of the word “Brazil” remains unclear. Today, Brazil is a rapidly emerging economic power, along with fellow “BRIC” countries Russia, India and China. But the country’s most well-known exports are probably its football stars; Brazil’s national side have won more World Cups than any other country. In addition to its sporting success, Brazil’s rich cultural heritage includes African, Portuguese as well as local Amerindian influences, perhaps best encapsulated by the samba dance.

In Brazil, life expectancy is in line with that of other emerging market countries, at 70 years for males and 77 years for females. Despite its recent economic gains, income disparity is very wide and there are many poor people living in its infamous favela slums, which were captured in the recent film “City of God.” Brazil’s total annual per capita health care is USD943, or 9 percent of its GDP. While the Brazilian Ministry of Health has made serious efforts to improve the equitable distribution of health care, difficulties in access to health care among the poor still persists. Many of Brazil’s poor rely on health care provided by the public sector, NGOs or charities. Private clinics are increasingly an option for wealthier Brazilians.

Brazil Health Insurance and Health Indicators

As with many countries who have achieved significant economic growth and development, Brazil’s burden of disease has shifted from communicable to non-communicable disease, including the so-called “diseases of affluence”, which afflict wealthier countries whose population’s sedentary lifestyles have led to poor diets. These conditions include cancer, diabetes and heart attacks, all of which are increasingly common in Brazil. Tuberculosis is also prevalent at just under one fourth of the global norm. The country has been successful in lowering its maternal mortality rate to less than one fourth of the global average, with 58 per 100,000 live births. The Ministry of Health programmes have helped to ensure that nearly all births are attended by skilled health care professionals.

While most Brazilians enjoy access to relatively clean drinking water, this is not always the case in rural areas. However, thanks to public health and infrastructure investment over the past two decades, today nearly four fifths of Brazilians enjoy clean drinking water. Access to improved sanitation facilities have made similar gains, but still up to one third of Brazil’s population do not have access to such facilities. These gains have had a positive effect on public health indicators. The health authorities in Brazil are still committed to the public health infrastructure through continued investment. While Brazil’s health care workforce is adequately staffed by global standards they are still below the regional average. There are currently 17.2 doctors and 65.0 nurses per 10,000 Brazilians. Access to high quality hospitals and health clinics is not a problem in urban areas, although this is not always the case in the vast country side of Brazil.

Brazil Health Insurance for Tourists and Expatriates

With the hosting the World Cup in 2014 and the Summer Olympics in 2016, Brazil is set to make a big splash on the global stage. Its rich culture, abundant natural beauty and charming populace welcome tourists from around the world. The country’s increasing economic clout also presents countless opportunities for the business traveller or tourist. However, travel to Brazil is not without risks to health. Violent crime is a serious concern, especially in urban areas. Pick pocketing, mugging and sexual assaults are common. As with many tropical countries, malaria is a major health risk, although there has been a concerted effort to reduce transmission. Visitors to parts of Brazil where malaria is prevalent are advised to wear long sleeved clothing, use insect repellent with DEET and sleep under mosquito nets. Due to the vast size of Brazil, there are different anti-malarial drugs recommended in different regions of the country. Consult with a travel health professional before taking any prescription anti-malarial medication. Routine vaccinations should also be updated before travel to Brazil, including those for hepatitis, typhoid and even rabies if planning to visit rural Brazil.

Typically violent crime and serious disease are worst-case scenarios for travellers, the most common health issues generally stem from gastroinstestinal distress, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. These can be avoided by drinking only bottled water and avoiding raw or undercooked foods. Over the counter medication is usually sufficient to treat these illnesses but persistent cases should be seen by a physician, particularly when there is dehydration risk. While Brazil’s hospitals and health clinics in urban areas can usually provide a high standard of care, this may not always be the case. Air medical evacuation can be required for serious medical emergencies, which can be extremely expensive in Brazil. Health insurance coverage is highly important, and an international health care plan is strongly recommended for tourists and expatriates alike.

Brazil Health Insurance & International Health Care Plans

Given the wide range of international health care plans on the market, choosing the best plan for you, your family, your colleagues or your tour group can be a challenge. To ensure peace of mind, contact the experienced advisors at Expat Medical Insurance. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you might have about international health insurance plans and to advise on which plan best suits you. Plans on offer may include alternative, dental, maternal and medical evacuation. Please contact Expat Medical Insurance today for more information.