What is SUS?

How can a foreign woman in labor receive free medical services under the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) health system in Brazil?

SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) is a health system in Brazil that provides access to health services for all citizens, regardless of their financial situation. It was established in 1988 and is one of the largest health systems in the world.

High-quality pregnancy care through SUS

High-quality pregnancy care within SUS includes the following aspects:

1. Free medical services. All services related to pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum are free of charge for all women registered with SUS.

2. Regular counseling. Pregnant women can get regular medical checkups, including:

   • Consultations with obstetricians and gynecologists.

   • Ultrasound studies.

   • Lab tests.

3. Maternity homes and hospitals. SUS provides access to birthing centers and hospitals where you can get the medical care you need during childbirth.

4. Psychological support. The system also offers psychological support services for women going through pregnancy and childbirth.

5. Educational Programs. SUS organizes courses and seminars for expectant mothers where they can learn about pregnancy, childbirth and newborn care.

6. Postpartum care. After childbirth, women can receive medical care and counseling for recovery and child care.

Advantages of SUS

• Accessibility: SUS provides access to health services for all segments of the population, including those who cannot afford private health care.

• Quality: Despite some shortcomings, SUS is committed to providing quality health care services, including maternity care.

• Comprehensive approach: The system focuses on comprehensive care, including prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Thus, SUS plays an important role in ensuring the health of pregnant women in Brazil by providing them with access to necessary health services.

Receive health care under the SUS system

A pregnant foreign woman can receive SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) health care in Brazil, but with some conditions.

Conditions for pregnant foreign women to receive service under SUS:

Conditions of access to SUS for foreign women:

Conditions of access to SUS for foreign women:

1. CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física). CPF is a tax registration number that is required to access many services, including SUS. It is possible to obtain a CPF even for foreigners in Brazil. It is free of charge or requires a minimum fee (depending on how it is obtained).

2. SUS Card (Cartão do SUS). In order to receive health services, foreign women in labor must obtain a SUS card, which is used to record all medical data and access free services.

3. Visa or legal status in Brazil. To use SUS, you must be in the country legally (e.g., with a tourist, student, or work visa). Legal status is confirmed by a passport or other identification card.

4. Lack of insurance. SUS is open to everyone, but if a foreign woman in labor has private health insurance, she will usually be referred to private medical facilities. However, having insurance does not preclude referral to SUS if necessary.

Restrictions for those entering on a tourist visa:

• Although the SUS card gives access to free medical care, tourists usually cannot use all the services of the system (e.g. specialized care unless it is an emergency).

• For long-term medical accompaniment (e.g. during pregnancy), a different residency status may be required.

SUS provides services for pregnant and postpartum women:

• Prenatal checkups. Regular doctor's consultations, tests and ultrasounds.

• Childbirth -- Free delivery (natural or cesarean section).

• Postnatal care. Maternal and child health monitoring, immunization of the newborn, breastfeeding assistance.

• Emergency care. In case of complications, a pregnant foreigner may go to any public health care institution.

How to apply for an SUS card:

1. Visit the nearest SUS medical facility or Secretaria de Saúde office.

2. Provide the necessary documents:

   • Passport.

   • CPF.

   • Proof of address in Brazil (e.g., rental agreement or utility bill).

3. Get your SUS card, which is issued immediately after checkout.

Full list of documents to apply for an SUS card:

To register in the SUS system (Sistema Único de Saúde) and obtain a SUS card (Cartão do SUS), you will need to prepare the following documents:

Key Documents:

1. CPF (Cadastro de Pessoa Física) - Individual Taxpayer Registration Number.

2. Identification document. Passport or RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros) for foreigners. The document must be valid.

3. Proof of address. Utility bill (electricity, water, telephone, etc.), lease agreement or other official proof of address issued no more than 3 months ago.

4. Birth or marriage certificate (if required).

Additional documents (if necessary):

1. Visa or a document confirming legal status in the country. This can be a temporary or permanent visa, or a protocol for requesting a residence permit if the status is still in process.

2. Translated and certified copies of documents. If the passport or other documents are in a foreign language, an official translation into Portuguese may be required.

3. Phone number and e-mail for contact (recommended for ease of processing).

How long does it take to process a SUS card?

The SUS card (Cartão do SUS) process usually takes from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the workload of the local health center (Unidade Básica de Saúde) and the correctness of the documents submitted.

Stages and the time it may take:

1. Document collection. If all documents are prepared in advance (passport, CPF, proof of address), it takes minimal time.

2. Visit the Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). On average, on-site registration takes between 15 and 30 minutes. If the UBS has a long line or is understaffed, the wait can extend to several hours.

3. Issuance of the card. In most cases, the card is issued immediately after registration. Sometimes the card is issued as a printed document, and the plastic card can be picked up later.

Factors affecting turnaround time:

• UBS congestion. In some regions or large cities (e.g. Florianópolis), queues may be longer than in smaller communities.

• Correctness of documents. If you have all the required documents (CPF, passport, proof of address), the process will be fast.

• District of enrollment. Some UBS may ask for additional time to verify your data, especially if your address is in a different neighborhood.

Tips for speeding up the process:

1. Come to UBS early in the day to avoid the queues.

2. Make sure all documents are prepared and compliant.

3. If you don't speak Portuguese, bring an interpreter or a representative from a company like BabyInBrazil to speed up the process.

How BabyInBrazil helps with SUS paperwork:

1. Consultation and document collection. We provide a list of required documents with detailed instructions, and check your documents for compliance with SUS requirements.

2. CPF registration. We help you register your CPF, if you do not already have one, through Receita Federal. We can arrange to accompany you to a Receita Federal office or to register online.

3. Assistance with translations. We organize translations of documents through accredited sworn translators in Brazil. We help with notarization of translated documents.

4. Address Confirmation. If you don't have address confirmation, we can help:

• Obtain temporary confirmation through a rental agreement.

• Prepare documents through our network of partners.

5. Accompanying the application:

• We will organize an appointment with the nearest SUS unit.

• Our counselors or interpreters can accompany you to the medical center.

• Explain how to make an appointment and get your medical records.

6. Online checkout:

• Help if your region allows remote SUS card issuance.

• Provide instructions for applying through portals or applications.

7. Support after clearance:

• We tell you how to use your SUS card, make appointments and get services.

• Advise on choosing doctors, clinics and medical services in the SUS system.

Why choose BabyInBrazil?

• Expertise. We know all the nuances of SUS processing for foreign women.

• Efficiency. We speed up the process by interacting with official institutions.

• Comfort. You can concentrate on your health and preparation for childbirth, and we take care of all the bureaucratic aspects.

• Accessibility. All counseling is done in a language you can understand.

Contact us now to start your paperwork and get your SUS card stress-free!

Frequently asked questions about getting health care services through SUS

Is there any possibility of getting an epidural anesthesia through SUS?

Epidural anesthesia (anesthesia used to anesthetize childbirth) is available through the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) as part of health services in public hospitals. However, its availability may depend on several factors:

Factors affecting the availability of epidural anesthesia:

1. Availability of specialists and equipment:

   • In large public hospitals (hospitais públicos), epidural anesthesia is available more often because they have anesthesiologists and the necessary equipment.

   • Small or remote health facilities may have limitations on the availability of specialists.

2. Medical Necessity:

   • Epidural anesthesia is provided when medically indicated.

   • The decision to use it is made by the medical team depending on the mother's condition, the course of labor and other factors.

3. System Overload:

   • Access to epidural anesthesia may be limited during periods of high hospital workload (e.g., when the number of women in labor is high).

4. Planned and emergency deliveries:

   • In planned cases, when a woman makes advance arrangements to give birth in a public hospital, the likelihood of receiving an epidural anesthesia is higher.

   • In emergency situations, medical conditions take precedence.

How do you make sure epidural anesthesia is available via SUS?

1. Choose a maternity hospital in advance. Check with the selected facility to find out if they provide epidural anesthesia and in which cases. This service is available in most cases in our maternity hospitals.

2. Consultation at the Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). Talk to a doctor at UBS who will refer you to the appropriate hospital.

3. Discuss the birth plan. In late pregnancy, you can discuss your birth plan with your health care team and find out about the availability of anesthesia.

How are prenatal consultations organized through SUS?

SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) provides free prenatal consultations (pré-natal) for pregnant women, including foreign women with an SUS card. These services include regular medical appointments, tests, vaccinations and advice on caring for yourself and your baby.

The process of organizing prenatal counseling through SUS:

1. Register with the Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). The first step is to register at the nearest UBS (local health department). Here you will be registered as pregnant and assigned a doctor who will support your pregnancy.

2. First visit to the doctor. At the first appointment, the doctor collects a medical history, measures height and weight, blood pressure and plans a schedule for follow-up consultations.

3. Scheduling of examinations. The expectant mother is prescribed mandatory tests and examinations, such as:

   • General blood and urine tests.

   • Ultrasonography (ultrasound).

   • Tests for infections (e.g., HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B).

   • Screening for gestational diabetes.

   • These tests are performed free of charge at SUS facilities.

4. Regular visits to the doctor. It is recommended that a pregnant woman see her doctor:

   • Once a month until the 28th week.

   • Every two weeks from week 28 to week 36.

   • Weekly from the 36th week until delivery.

5. Vaccinations. The SUS provides free vaccinations, such as tetanus (Td) and influenza, as part of prenatal care.

6. Educational programs. Some UBSs offer lectures and classes for expectant mothers about the birthing process, breastfeeding and caring for the baby.

7. Referral to a maternity hospital. In the last stages of pregnancy, your UBS doctor will give you a referral to the maternity hospital (maternidade) where you will give birth.

Additional services through SUS:

• Psychological support. If a pregnant woman is having emotional difficulties, she may be assigned a counseling session with a psychologist.

• Specialty care. In case of complications, the doctor will refer the pregnant woman to a specialized medical facility.

Can I call an ambulance through SUS for pregnancy complications?

Through the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), you can call an ambulance in case of pregnancy complications. For this purpose, Brazil has the SAMU (Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência) ambulance service, which provides free emergency services, including to pregnant foreign women.

How do I call an ambulance through SUS?

1. SAMU service number. Dial 192 on any telephone. The call is free of charge.

2. What to say to the operator:

   • Describe the problem, indicating that you are pregnant.

   • Provide your location and contact phone number.

   • Indicate if you have a doctor's referral or previous medical information.

3. Waiting for help. The SAMU team will arrive and provide first aid on site. If necessary, you will be taken to the nearest SUS medical facility.

What cases are considered emergencies in pregnancy?

• Severe abdominal pain.

• Heavy or unusual bleeding.

• Contractions in early pregnancy.

• Loss of consciousness or dizziness.

• Swelling of the face, arms, or legs with high blood pressure.

• Decreased or no movement of the child.

• A sudden rise in temperature.

Features of assistance through SUS:

• Delivery to the nearest hospital. The pregnant woman is taken to a SUS-affiliated hospital with a labor and delivery unit.

• Interpreters. In emergencies, an interpreter is not usually available, so it is advisable to know basic medical terms in Portuguese or have a companion who speaks the language.

How can BabyInBrazil help?

• Emergency training. We tell you how to call an ambulance correctly and what you need to prepare for an emergency.

• Making an emergency plan. We help you create a list of health care providers and contacts in case of complications.

• Accompaniment. Organize an interpreter to communicate with medical staff in the hospital.

For more information and emergency preparation, contact us today to keep yourself safe in the future!

What kind of postpartum care does SUS provide?

SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) provides a wide range of postpartum care for mothers, including foreign mothers in Brazil. It aims to restore the woman's health after childbirth, provide care for the newborn and support breastfeeding.

Types of postpartum care through SUS:

1. Medical examinations for mother and child:

   • Initial check-up 7-10 days after delivery: Checking the woman's health status, healing of stitches (if any), identification of possible complications.

   • Examination of the child: Monitor weight, growth, skin condition and basic reflexes.

2. Breastfeeding counseling:

   • Assist in proper breastfeeding of the baby.

   • Nutrition tips for the breastfeeding mother.

   • Addressing problems such as cracked nipples or inadequate lactation.

3. Psychological support:

   • Counseling to prevent and treat postpartum depression.

   • Support groups for mothers.

4. Immunization of the newborn:

   • Issue a vaccination card (Carteira de Vacinação).

   • Introduction of the first mandatory vaccines (e.g., hepatitis B and tuberculosis).

5. Contraception and family planning:

   • Counseling on the choice of contraceptive methods.

   • Providing free contraceptives.

6. Physical therapy and recovery:

   • Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

   • Treatment of back or joint pain associated with childbirth.

7. Ambulance:

   • Access to emergency medical services for complications in the postpartum period.

Where to get postpartum care through SUS?

• Polyclinics (Unidades Básicas de Saúde). The main place for routine maternal and child consultations.

• SUS-related hospitals. For more complex cases or when hospitalization is necessary.

• Family health programs (Estratégia de Saúde da Família). Home visits by health personnel.

What kind of documents are needed?

• SUS card (Cartão do SUS).

• A child's birth certificate (if a newborn needs help).

• Mother's passport or other identification document.

Are psychological services provided for pregnant women through SUS?

Psychological services for pregnant women are provided through the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), which makes this system particularly valuable for women, including foreign women in Brazil. These services aim to support the psycho-emotional health of expectant mothers, preventing stress and pregnancy-related complications.

What psychological services are available?

1. Individual consultations with a psychologist:

   • Help with managing anxiety, stress and depression.

   • Support for self-esteem issues or fears related to labor.

   • Preparing for changes in family life.

2. Group Sessions:

   • Childbirth preparation programs.

   • Discussing maternity experiences with other pregnant women.

   • Teaching relaxation techniques.

3. Psychological preparation for childbirth:

   • Learning breathing techniques and exercises to reduce tension.

   • Pain management through mindfulness.

4. Support in the event of complications or losses:

   • Help with complex diagnoses in the mother or child.

   • Accompaniment in case of miscarriage or loss.

5. Prevention and treatment of postpartum depression:

   • Identifying predisposition to depression.

   • Recommendations for preventing its development.

Where to get psychological services through SUS?

1. Polyclinics (Unidades Básicas de Saúde). Primary point of contact for psychological help. You can also make an appointment for counseling or enter the family health program.

2. Hospitals with a psychology department. Provide specialized care when more advanced treatment is needed.

3. Mental Health Centers (Centros de Atenção Psicossocial - CAPS). Work with pregnant women with serious psycho-emotional problems.

What documents do I need to bring with me?

• Map of the SUS (Cartão do SUS).

• ID card or passport.

• If necessary, a referral from a physician.

How does BabyInBrazil help pregnant women with access to psychological services?

• Counseling. Helping you understand how to access psychological support through SUS.

• Organizing an appointment. Arranging appointments for counseling or group sessions.

• Interpretation and accompaniment. We provide an interpreter so that you can communicate comfortably with the psychologists.

• Support for complex cases. We help if you need to connect to CAPS or specialized hospitals.

What should I do if the nearest maternity hospital through SUS is full?

If the nearest SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) maternity hospital is overcrowded, you should not panic. In such situations, our company has measures in place to help the pregnant woman receive medical care.

What you can do without our involvement:

Steps in a crowded maternity ward:

1. Go to the nearest Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS). This is a local health clinic that can refer you to another maternity hospital or health center. They will provide a list of alternative facilities where SUS births are available.

2. Contact SAMU (emergency ambulance service). If you are in labor or there are complications, you can call an ambulance by dialing 192. The ambulance is obliged to take you to the nearest maternity hospital that is able to receive the patient.

3. Search for other hospitals in the area. Using the Regulação de Vagas system, SUS staff will redirect you to another facility with available spaces.

4. Contact your regional health department. If you cannot find a free maternity hospital, the health department in your region must help you find a place. Call the Secretaria de Saúde in your city or state.

5. Look for a temporary solution at a private hospital. In an emergency, you can go to the nearest private hospital. By law, they are obliged to provide first aid if the life and health of the mother or child is at stake.

How do you avoid an overcrowding situation?

• Plan your birth in advance. Make an appointment at your chosen maternity hospital late in your pregnancy (usually at 32-36 weeks).

• Visit your doctor regularly through SUS. The doctor can make an appointment in advance at a maternity hospital where there are places available and refer you to the right specialist.

• Be in contact with the health care system. Make sure you are registered and told where to go if you go into labor.

How does BabyInBrazil help in these situations?

• Monitoring the availability of places in our maternity hospitals. We check in advance which maternity hospitals are ready to accept patients.

• Accompaniment. We help with finding alternative medical facilities and preparing documents for transfer.

• Translation and communication. Our interpreters ensure effective communication with the nursing staff.

• Emergency support. We coordinate with the local health care system when an emergency intervention is needed.

Contact us for help in planning and ensuring a comfortable birth through SUS in Brazil. We will make sure that you and your baby receive the medical care you deserve!

Does SUS provide immunization services for a newborn?

SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) provides immunization services for newborns in Brazil. Vaccination is an important part of health care in the country and it is free for all citizens, including foreigners, under certain conditions.

What does immunization for newborns through SUS include?

1. Mandatory vaccines in the national calendar. Brazil has a National Vaccination Calendar that includes mandatory vaccinations for newborns. These vaccines protect children from dangerous infectious diseases such as:

   • Hepatitis B vaccine (first dose);

   • Tuberculosis vaccine (BCG);

   • Vaccines against pneumococcal, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, polio, hepatitis B and other diseases, depending on the age of the child.

2. Vaccination in SUS health facilities. Vaccinations for newborns are given at Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS), which are local health clinics. Vaccines may also be available at hospitais públicos (public hospitals).

3. Immunization schedule. Immunizations for newborns and infants are usually given in several stages:

   • Newborns: first immunization against hepatitis B and BCG.

   • After 2 months: immunizations against diphtheria, whooping cough, polio, pneumococcal and others.

   • Vaccinations continue as scheduled throughout the first few years of life.

How do I get immunizations for my newborn through SUS?

1. SUS registration. In order to receive vaccines through SUS, it is necessary to have a SUS card. Foreigners can register with the health system by providing appropriate documents such as passport and, if necessary, temporary or permanent residence.

2. Visit to the UBS or hospital. After receiving the SUS card, parents can go to the nearest Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS) to immunize their newborn. It is important to make an appointment or visit the health center during open hours.

3. Free of charge. All vaccines for children under the national vaccination program are provided free of charge, regardless of citizenship status.

Help from BabyInBrazil:

1. Support in the SUS registration process. Our company helps foreign parents to register in the SUS system and get an SUS card for their children.

2. Vaccination counseling. We provide vaccination counseling, including information on immunizations required for newborns in Brazil.

3. Immunization appointments. We help organize visits to health care facilities to get vaccines for newborns and provide support on vaccine availability.

If you have additional questions about immunizations or other medical issues in Brazil, don't hesitate to contact us for help. We are here to ensure your safety and your baby's health every step of the way!

Do foreigners have the same rights as citizens to SUS services?

In Brazil, foreigners have the right to access SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) health services, but with some conditions.

Remember these key points:

Equal rights to SUS services for foreigners

1. Access to health services. Foreigners in Brazil can access SUS services on the same basis as Brazilian citizens. This includes primary health care, inpatient care and emergency services.

2. Registration. To receive SUS services, foreigners need to register in the system. This may require some documents such as a passport and possibly a residence permit.

3. Payment for Services. SUS services are free of charge for all users, including foreigners. However, in some cases additional documents or proof of status may be required.

4. Restrictions. Foreigners staying in Brazil temporarily (e.g. tourists) may have limited access to certain services, especially for long-term treatment or specialized services.

Foreigners in Brazil are entitled to access SUS services, but it is important to follow the conditions of registration and services. It is advisable to contact us, or local health facilities for more information.

Are there laws protecting the rights of pregnant foreign women in the SUS system?

Brazil has laws that protect the rights of pregnant foreign women in the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) system.

Highlights:

Protection of the rights of pregnant foreign women in SUS

1. Right to medical care. Pregnant foreign women have the right to access health care services under SUS, including prenatal care, delivery and postnatal care.

2. Free services. All pregnancy-related medical services are free of charge, regardless of migration status. This includes examinations, tests and hospitalization.

3. Registration. Pregnant foreign women must register with SUS to receive services. This may require the provision of passport and other documents.

4. Protection of rights. Brazil has legislation that protects the rights of women, including pregnant women, from discrimination. This means that foreign women have equal rights to receive health care.

5. Special Programs. Some regions of Brazil may have special support programs for pregnant women, including foreign women, that can provide additional assistance and information.

Pregnant foreign women in Brazil are legally entitled to receive health services in the SUS system and their rights are protected by the relevant legislation. It is recommended to contact local health facilities for information on the necessary documents and procedures.

How do I get free legal advice on SUS issues?

There are several options available to obtain free legal advice on SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) for a pregnant foreign woman in Brazil:

1. legal aid through state institutions

In Brazil, there are various organizations that provide free legal advice, including on access to health care for foreigners.

• Defensoria Pública (Public Defender). This is a public organization that provides free legal assistance to all citizens, including foreigners, who are facing legal issues related to access to health services, including SUS issues. To do so, you need to go to the nearest Defensoria Pública office, register and describe your situation. For assistance, you can find and contact the nearest Defensoria Pública office in your area. This can often be done through the official website or a personal visit.

• OAB (Order of Advocates of Brazil). Some bar associations offer free advice to low-income people through legal aid programs. You can contact the OAB in your city or state to find out about these opportunities.

2. legal advice from private companies and online services

If you need a faster solution or counseling in a language you are comfortable with (e.g. Russian, English or other languages), BabyInBrazil provides counseling for foreign women on health care and SUS registration. We help you understand the documents, rights and obligations in accessing health services.

How we can help:

• Advice on how to apply for a SUS card and access health services.

• Assistance with SUS registration if you are just arriving.

• Legal support when applying to state institutions and explaining the rights of foreigners.

• Support in the preparation of documents for medical institutions and advice on procedures.

3. telemedicine and online consultations

Many law firms and attorneys offer online consultations through video call or chat platforms. This can be a convenient way to get help from the comfort of your own home, especially if you are located in another city or state in Brazil.

How do I get free legal advice?

• Contact BabyInBrazil: We offer consultations to help you understand the issues of receiving medical services through the SUS, the rights of foreign citizens in the Brazilian health system and other important aspects. To do so, you can: write to the mail or book a consultation through the online form on the company's website or via WhatsApp, at (number).

• Utilize government assistance channels. Contact Defensoria Pública or the OAB for free legal advice on how to access the SUS.

How BabyInBrazil helps with access to SUS:

• Assistance in obtaining CPF and SUS card.

• Advice on paperwork.

• Translation and certification of necessary documents.

• Escort to government offices for appointments.

• Preparation for interactions with health services, including learning basic phrases in Portuguese.

Frequently Asked Questions by Foreign Women:

1. Can I use SUS with a tourist visa? Yes, tourists are also entitled to free medical services in Brazil, including maternity care.

2. Are there any restrictions on access to SUS for foreign women? No, but it is necessary to have CPF and SUS card to register in the system.

3. Can I receive prenatal care at a private hospital and give birth at SUS? Yes, this combination is possible if necessary.

4. How long does it take to issue an SUS card? Usually the card is issued on the day of submission of documents.

SUS offers foreign women in labor the opportunity to receive high quality medical care free of charge, making Brazil one of the attractive countries for childbirth.

Recommendations

Contact your local SUS office. It is recommended to visit the nearest SUS office for information on registration and required documents.

Consultation with a lawyer. If there are questions about legal status or access to services, it is worth consulting an immigration lawyer.

Thus, pregnant foreign women in Brazil can receive services under SUS, but it is important to comply with all the requirements and conditions for registration.

If you have specific questions or need guidance on how to enroll in SUS, we are here to provide support and advice! All preliminary consultations with us are free of charge. And they do not oblige you to anything. So feel free to contact us, we will help you.