Telemedicine

Where and how do I order telemedicine in Brazil?

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine is the use of digital technology and communications to provide medical services remotely. Patients can consult with doctors, receive diagnoses, recommendations and even treatment without visiting a medical facility in person.

Telemedicine includes:

1. Video consultations with physicians.

2. Sharing medical information (test results, scans).

3. Health monitoring via wearable devices or apps.

4. Electronic prescriptions and referrals.

The goal of telemedicine is to make health services more accessible, especially for people who live in remote areas or have limited mobility.

Telemedicine in Brazil

In Brazil, telemedicine is actively developed and regulated by the government. It became particularly popular after the COVID-19 pandemic, when personal access to health facilities was limited.

Main aspects of telemedicine in Brazil:

1. Legislative regulation. Telemedicine is regulated by the Federal Council of Medicine (Conselho Federal de Medicina - CFM), which defines standards and restrictions for the provision of remote medical services.

2. Accessibility. Telemedicine services are available through the public health system (SUS) and private medical companies. This makes it possible to reach wide segments of the population.

3. Types of services:

   • Initial consultations with a physician.

   • A second opinion from the experts.

   • Psychological counseling.

   • Chronic Disease Monitoring.

4. Technology. Apps, video calls, specialized platforms are used. Moreover, patients using telemedicine services are protected by privacy laws such as the LGPD (Brazilian Data Protection Law).

Benefits of telemedicine in Brazil

• Accessibility to remote regions. Brazil has vast areas, including the Amazon, where access to medical facilities can be difficult. Telemedicine solves this problem. This is also the reason why telemedicine in Brazil has surpassed many countries in its development and effectiveness.

• Saving time and money. Patients can consult with doctors without wasting time and money on travel, parking fees and waiting in lines.

• Improvement of service quality. Ability to quickly receive expert advice and prompt recommendations.

• Support during pandemics. Telemedicine has shown its importance in mobility restrictions.

Limitations and challenges

• Access to Technology. Not all residents have access to stable internet or up-to-date devices.

• Legal issues. Not all tests and procedures can be done remotely. For example, in-person examinations or laboratory tests are often required to make an accurate diagnosis.

• Data Security. The threat of medical information leakage requires the implementation of robust data security systems.

How to use telemedicine in Brazil?

1. Choose a provider. You can go to SUS if you are enrolled, or you can choose a private health care provider.

2. Register. Use an app or website that requires you to provide your details and describe the problem.

3. Make an appointment. Choose a convenient time for a consultation.

4. Prepare for the consultation. Prepare questions, previous test results, or diagnoses.

Where is telemedicine used most often?

Telemedicine is used in many different areas of healthcare, but the most common uses are in the following areas:

• Primary health care. Consultations with general practitioners or family physicians. Assessment of symptoms, treatment recommendations and referral to subspecialists.

• Mental Health. Telemedicine is actively used for online sessions with psychologists, psychotherapists and psychiatrists. Support for patients with anxiety disorders, depression or other mental health conditions.

• Chronic Diseases. Monitoring patients with diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and other chronic conditions. Use of remote devices to measure health indicators (e.g., glucometer or tonometer).

• Pediatrics. Remote consultations for child care, especially in remote areas. Assessment of mild symptoms in infants and children without the need for a doctor's visit.

• Reproductive health. Counseling for pregnant women, including foreign women. Remote monitoring of maternal and fetal health.

• Oncology. Organization of consultations with oncologists. Monitoring of the patient's condition after treatment.

• Rural and remote areas. Particularly needed in areas with limited access to physicians. Providing specialized care to residents of remote regions.

• Postoperative follow-up. Monitoring of the patient's condition after surgery. Assessment of wound healing, no need for personal visits.

• Emergency care. Quick communication with a physician to assess the patient's condition before transporting him or her to the hospital.

• Education and counseling. Informing patients about disease prevention. Clarifying treatment or medication regimens.

Examples

In Brazil, telemedicine is widely used for primary care and in the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) program to support remote regions.

Private health plans also offer telemedicine services as part of their packages.

Telemedicine helps reduce waiting lists, travel costs and wait times, making it a convenient and affordable option for most patients.

Telemedicine for foreigners in Brazil

Foreigners can also benefit from telemedicine through private health insurance or fee-for-service. This is especially convenient for tourists or expats who need to access medical care quickly.

Example of a service for foreigners

If you've traveled to Brazil to give birth, telemedicine can help you connect with obstetricians, pediatricians, and other specialists for remote consultations.

Application of telemedicine in Brazil for pregnant foreign and postpartum women

Telemedicine in Brazil is actively used and can be very useful for foreign pregnant women and women who have already given birth. It provides access to health services remotely, which is especially relevant for those who have just arrived in the country or live in remote areas.

How does telemedicine help pregnant foreign women?

1. Prenatal counseling:

   • Obstetricians can monitor the health of the mother and baby remotely.

   • The opportunity to get a second opinion from specialists on the current state of the pregnancy.

   • Counseling on nutrition, regimen and physical activity.

2. Discussion of the results of the tests:

   • The pregnant woman may give the doctors the results of tests or ultrasounds for evaluation.

   • Telemedicine avoids an in-person visit if the mother's condition is stable.

3. Psychological support:

   • Psychologists and psychotherapists can provide emotional support through video calls.

   • Help to reduce the stress of being pregnant in a foreign country.

4. Childbirth Preparation:

   • Participate in online courses and consultations on breathing techniques, pain management, and newborn care.

   • Engaging with Doulas through digital platforms.

How does telemedicine help women after childbirth?

1. Postpartum counseling:

   • Assessment of maternal physical recovery.

   • Monitoring of suture status (if there was a cesarean section or episiotomy) through video discussion.

2. Pediatric care:

   • Online consultations with pediatricians for newborn assessment.

   • Help with breastfeeding problems.

3. Psychological support:

   • Help for postpartum depression.

   • Working with anxieties related to motherhood.

4. Immunizations and child care:

   • Vaccination scheduling through remote counseling.

   • Tips on baby's skin care, nutrition, and regimen.

5. Counseling for foreign women:

   • Explanation of procedures for obtaining documentation for a newborn.

   • Tips for adapting to Brazil, including medical and social aspects.

Why is telemedicine convenient for foreign women?

1. Time saving. There is no need to travel to the clinic, especially if the woman is in a remote location.

2. Language support. Many private platforms provide providers who speak English, Spanish, or other languages.

3. 24/7 availability. Telemedicine platforms are often available 24 hours a day, which is especially important for mothers with young children.

4. Stress reduction. Ability to discuss concerns from home or temporary accommodation.

How do I get started using telemedicine?

1. Platform selection. Public SUS services provide free consultations through platforms such as Conecte SUS. Private insurance companies offer their own telemedicine applications.

2. Registration. Register in the system with your details and medical history.

3. Appointment for a consultation. Choose a convenient time for the consultation and the doctor of the desired specialty.

4. Preparation. Prepare questions, medical records, and test results for discussion.

What is another name for telemedicine?

Telemedicine may be called differently depending on the context and scope.

To the main alternatives in the title can be considered:

1. Remote medicine - emphasis on remote delivery of health care.

2. Electronic medicine (eHealth) is a broad term that includes telemedicine and other healthcare technologies.

3. Mobile Health (mHealth) - if services are provided through mobile devices.

4. Virtual medicine - emphasis on the use of video conferencing and digital platforms for consultations.

5. Online health care is a popular term for services over the internet.

6. Tele-consultations - when it comes to remote consultations with doctors.

7. Telehealth - includes telemedicine as well as distance education and preventive services.

Each name emphasizes a specific aspect of the technology, but they all have a similar meaning and are used to provide medical care remotely.

Can telemedicine make a diagnosis?

Telemedicine can be used to make preliminary diagnoses, especially in cases where symptoms can be assessed remotely.

However, there are nuances:

1. When it's possible to make a diagnosis:

   • Simple illnesses (flu, acute respiratory infections, skin rashes, etc.).

   • Chronic conditions that the doctor is already managing (such as diabetes or hypertension).

   • Psychological and psychiatric conditions (anxiety, depression).

   • Evaluation of laboratory tests or scans if the data has been forwarded to the physician.

2. Restrictions:

   • If a physical exam is needed (for example, to detect tumors or listen to your lungs).

   • Complex or rare diseases that require specialized equipment.

Telemedicine is often used to refer a patient to a subspecialist or for additional tests if an accurate diagnosis cannot be made remotely.

Can telemedicine prescribe antibiotics?

In some cases, telemedicine can prescribe antibiotics.

However, it depends:

• Legal provisions. In most countries, including Brazil, doctors through telemedicine are authorized to write prescriptions if the law allows it.

• Clinical necessity. If the physician believes that symptoms indicate a bacterial infection (e.g., sore throat, urinary tract infection), he or she may prescribe antibiotics. The prescription is usually made after evaluation of symptoms, test results (if available), and ruling out the viral nature of the illness.

• Limitations. If the infection is complicated, the doctor may recommend a personal visit or additional tests. The physician avoids unnecessarily prescribing antibiotics to prevent the development of drug resistance.

Telemedicine provides convenient access to medical care, but complex cases may require an in-person visit with a physician.

What is the largest company in telemedicine?

In Brazil, one of the largest companies in telemedicine is Grupo Hapvida.

Founded in 1979, the group operates in all regions of the country, serving almost 7 million customers. In early 2021, it was announced that Hapvida would merge with competitor Notre Dame Intermédica, strengthening their position in the market. Grupo Hapvida is actively developing the telemedicine business by owning the healthtech company Maida, which researches and develops products using innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence.

In addition, in February 2024, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) announced the launch of the Doctis telemedicine platform in Brazil. "Doctis provides world-class telemedicine services and plans to expand its presence in BRICS countries, including Brazil.

Thus, Grupo Hapvida is one of the leading telemedicine companies in Brazil, actively developing innovative technologies and expanding its presence in the market.

Philips Healthcare and Medtronic hold leading positions in the global telemedicine market. They are actively competing for leadership by offering a variety of telemedicine products and services.

What is the most utilized telemedicine platform?

In Brazil, one of the most used telemedicine platforms is TeleSUS, developed by the country's Ministry of Health. According to data provided on the BRASIL.RU website, 5.7 million people have already used the services of this platform.

In addition, large insurance companies such as Amil and SulAmerica have seen significant growth in teleconsultations, indicating widespread use of their own telemedicine services.

Thus, TeleSUS and platforms provided by leading insurance companies are the most popular means of telemedicine services in Brazil.

How does BabyInBrazil help?

When you are expecting a baby or have just become a mom, especially in a foreign country, access to quality medical care becomes not just important, but vital. BabyInBrazil is your reliable support in adjusting to life in Brazil, including the organization of telemedicine consultations at the highest level.

How do we help?

BabyInBrazil provides a full range of services related to telemedicine:

1. Organizing telemedicine consultations We help you choose the right doctor based on your needs, whether it's pregnancy management, postpartum recovery or child care counseling. You will be able to discuss your questions with the doctor in your language or with an interpreter.

2. Technical support If you are unsure how to connect to the platform, our team will explain in detail how to do so and set up the connection if necessary.

3. Translation and communication assistance Telemedicine in Brazil is most often conducted in Portuguese. Our specialists provide professional translation during your consultation so that you can understand the doctor's recommendations and ask all your questions.

4. Always have access to your health information We train you to use telemedicine platforms such as TeleSUS and the services of major health insurance companies so you can always seek care at any time of day or night.

5. Emergency support If you urgently need telemedicine care, we can help you quickly arrange a consultation with the right specialist.

Why choose BabyInBrazil?

• Personalized approach. We understand that every situation is unique and approach issues as flexibly as possible.

• Expertise. Our team includes experienced professionals who know the nuances of the Brazilian healthcare system.

• Save time and resources. We take care of all the organizational work so you can focus on your health and your baby.

• Language support. We eliminate language barriers, making interaction with Brazilian doctors a comfortable experience.

How does it work?

1. Contact us via WhatsApp (phone number) or by phone.

2. Describe your needs and problems. We will advise you free of charge.

3. Get a ready-made solution. We organize everything from choosing a doctor to transferring.

With BabyInBrazil, you will feel more confident because you will have a team that cares about your health and your baby's health. Take advantage of our services to make your pregnancy and the first months of motherhood calm and joyful.

Contact us today and we can help you take the first step to health and wellness in Brazil!

How to pick up a telemedicine service in Brazil on your own?

If you want to try to order telemedicine services for Russian-speaking pregnant women or moms with newborns in Brazil, try the following methods:

• Telemedicine platforms. Use popular services such as Doctoralia or Telemedicina. On these platforms, you can find doctors offering online consultations.

• Health care providers. Contact hospitals or clinics that offer telemedicine services. Many facilities have already implemented such services, especially during a pandemic.

• Specialized apps. Try to find apps like Saúde em Dia or 99Doctor that allow you to consult with doctors via video call.

• Social networks and groups. Ask questions in Russian-speaking groups on Facebook or WhatsApp, maybe someone will recommend a doctor or a platform where you can have a consultation.

• Freelance doctors. Use platforms such as Prontmed or Doctoralia where you can find doctors offering consultations for your request.

• Embassy or consulate in your country. Contact the Russian embassy or consulate in Brazil for recommendations and possible resources.

Before your consultation, make sure the doctor can communicate in your language or English (or use an interpreter) and check what services are offered. Be careful to choose a trusted and reliable source.

Of course, you can choose your own telemedicine service at the maternity hospital where you are going to give birth, applying our recommendations. But such a service is also included in the service of our company. According to your wishes, we will select a proven doctor for a reasonable fee.

For an initial consultation, contact us on our feedback form (link to form or form below) or on WhatsApp (contact number) and our consultant will answer any question you may have.

All preliminary consultations with us are free of charge and do not oblige you to anything. So contact us right now and you will get answers to all your questions.