Heading to Brazil for its golden beaches, lively samba, and the wonders of the Amazon? While your trip will likely be filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences, it’s always smart to be prepared for the unexpected. From a quick prescription refill in Rio to urgent care in São Paulo, this guide walks you through how tourists can see a doctor in Brazil, covering costs, clinics, and practical tips to make the process smooth and stress-free.
8 Ways to Navigate Healthcare in Brazil for Tourists
Find an online doctor service in Brazil.
Ask your hotel concierge or Airbnb host.
Consult local expat groups.
Refer to embassy lists to find an English-speaking doctor.
Search for public health directories to find a GP.
Find a nearby doctor using Google.
Visit a walk-in clinic or urgent care facility.
Go to an emergency room.
Online Doctors in Brazil
One of the easiest and most reliable ways to see an online doctor in Brazil while abroad is through online telehealth services, many of which operate 24/7. For tourists, this can be a game-changer when you need quick medical advice, a prescription refill, or treatment for common travel issues. Here’s why telemedicine is often the best choice:
- Availability Anytime – With 24/7 access, telemedicine lets you reach a qualified doctor whenever you need one, even late at night or on weekends when most clinics are closed.
- Effortless Convenience – Skip the stress of finding a local clinic or waiting in line. You can talk to a doctor directly from your hotel, Airbnb, or even while traveling between destinations.
- Instant Prescriptions – After your consultation, you’ll receive a digital prescription by email, ready to present at any nearby pharmacy, from wherever you are.
- Affordable Consultations – Online visits typically start at around $20, offering a budget-friendly alternative to in-person clinic appointments.
- Language Support – Many telemedicine services cater to international visitors and provide consultations in English and other languages, making communication easy and comfortable.
- Seamless Follow-Ups – Platforms like Doctorsa include free follow-ups for up to seven days, so you can reconnect with your doctor if your condition changes or if you have additional questions about your treatment.
Here are the most common diseases and health concerns that can be managed through online doctor services:
View the complete list of conditions treatable online.
Finding a Doctor in Brazil as a Tourist
Locating a doctor in Brazil is usually straightforward with tools like Google Search and Google Maps. Here’s how you can do it step by step:
Using Google Search
- Search with specific keywords – Use phrases like “doctor near me in Brazil” or “GP near me.” If you need a specialist, try “dermatologist near me” or “pediatrician near me.”
- Add your location – Be more precise by including your city or neighborhood (e.g. “doctor in Rio de Janeiro” or “medical clinic in São Paulo”).
- Check reviews and ratings – Look for recent and reliable feedback. Verify language claims on the clinic’s site or by phone/WhatsApp.
- Visit the clinic’s website – Many private practices list services, doctor credentials, and whether they speak English or other languages.
- See booking options – Some clinics allow online scheduling, while others prefer phone calls or WhatsApp.
Using Google Maps
- Enable location services for accurate nearby results.
- Search in both English and Portuguese – Try “doctor near me” as well as “médico perto de mim” for broader results.
- Compare map and list views – This helps spot clinics closest to your hotel or Airbnb.
- Read reviews carefully – Tourists often mention if English is spoken by the doctor or staff.
- Check details before going – Confirm address, hours, phone number, and website.
- Call or message ahead – In Brazil, many clinics use WhatsApp for quick communication, so it’s a handy way to confirm availability.
- Get directions easily – Use Google Maps navigation by foot, car, or public transport to reach the clinic.
Public Health Directories to Find a General Doctor in Brazil
SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) is Brazil’s public healthcare system. Emergency care is available to everyone, including tourists. But free routine services are really meant for residents. If you’re visiting, you might be charged for consultations, tests, or medication, especially outside major cities.
If you need to see a general practitioner (GP) while in Brazil, you can check municipal or state SUS directories (usually on local Secretaria de Saúde websites) to find nearby Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS) or public clinics. These listings help you locate clinics by area or service type, but they’re in Portuguese, don’t include reviews, and rarely mention if doctors speak English, so it helps to turn on your browser’s translation tool.
Because SUS is run locally, the quality and wait times can vary a lot depending on where you are. In big cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, you’ll find decent primary care and vaccination services at public clinics—but be ready for long queues and limited English support.
That’s why many travelers and expats prefer telemedicine platforms like Doctorsa. Unlike traditional clinics, Doctorsa checks every doctor’s credentials and English fluency, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers. You’ll also find verified reviews from international patients (via Trustpilot) and can book appointments with your regular phone number, no CPF or local registration needed.
If your issue doesn’t seem like an emergency but needs more than a quick pharmacy visit, Doctorsa’s often the best middle ground. Instead of calling clinics, waiting for appointments, and navigating across town, you just fill out a short form, see clear prices, pay online, and talk to a licensed local doctor in minutes. It’s faster, simpler, and often way cheaper than private international clinics.
Hotel Concierges and Airbnb Hosts in Brazil
Hotel concierges and Airbnb hosts in Brazil are usually used to helping guests find medical care; it’s one of the most common requests they get from tourists. Whether you’re in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or Foz do Iguaçu, your host will likely know a few trusted local doctors, private clinics, or hospitals that cater to travelers. In large cities, you’ll often find doctors who speak some English, which can make things much smoother if you need quick care.
That said, it’s worth being a little cautious. Some concierges and hosts recommend specific doctors or clinics in exchange for commissions or kickbacks, which can lead to higher consultation fees. Always ask for a few alternatives and check prices before booking to avoid unexpected costs.
Tips for Asking Your Concierge or Host for a Doctor
- Be clear about your needs – Let them know if you need urgent care, a quick prescription refill, or a specialist like a dermatologist or cardiologist. Ask whether the doctor issues e‑prescriptions and accepts tourists.
- Request multiple options – Get two or three recommendations so you can compare location, availability, and cost.
- Clarify fees upfront – Private clinics are usually faster for tourists, but prices vary widely. Ask about consultation fees, test costs, and whether English-speaking doctors charge extra.
- Check online first – Before you call or visit, look up the clinic or doctor online to confirm reviews and legitimacy. Confirm whether an English-speaking doctor is available and whether pricing is posted.
Do Doctors in Brazil Speak English?
It’s much easier to find English-speaking doctors in Brazil’s larger cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. Private hospitals and international medical centers in these areas often cater to tourists and expats, so you’ll usually find staff (doctors, nurses, and receptionists) who can communicate comfortably in English.
If you prefer something quicker and more flexible, online platforms like Doctorsa are a great choice. You can book a teleconsultation in English with a locally licensed doctor who can issue valid prescriptions without leaving your hotel room. Compared to international clinics, which can cost up to 10× more, Doctorsa often saves both time and money. Instead of calling multiple clinics, waiting days for a slot, and navigating across town, you can just fill out a short form, see transparent prices, pay online, and speak to a doctor within minutes.
International clinics are still a solid option for complex or in-person cases, but they’re often slower and more expensive. Doctorsa fits perfectly for situations that go beyond what a pharmacy can handle but don’t require an emergency room visit, offering a practical and budget-friendly solution for travelers.
Outside Brazil’s major cities, it can be trickier to find English-speaking doctors. Public hospitals under SUS generally have longer wait times and limited English proficiency among staff. If you’re heading to smaller towns or rural areas, it’s smart to check ahead whether the clinic or doctor nearby offers English support.
Ask Local Expat Groups
Tapping into local expat communities is one of the easiest ways to find an English-speaking doctor in Brazil, but it’s smart to approach their recommendations with a bit of caution. Some expat suggestions may be influenced by sponsorships or personal preferences, and their healthcare needs often differ from those of short-term travelers. While their advice can be a great starting point, it might not always be the best fit for urgent or short-term care.
That said, expat groups are still a useful resource if you’re looking for trusted clinics or doctors who speak English. You can connect through:
- Facebook Groups – Active pages like Expats in São Paulo, Expats in Brazil, and Foreigners in Rio de Janeiro often discuss healthcare providers and share real experiences.
- WhatsApp & Telegram Chats – In big cities like São Paulo, Rio, and Brasília, local expats keep group chats where members quickly exchange doctor referrals and advice.
- Online Forums & Reddit – Subreddits such as r/Brazil and r/expats are handy for asking questions or browsing past discussions about reliable clinics.
- Local Expat Blogs & Guides – Websites like Aventura do Brasil and Expat Exchange sometimes post helpful articles with healthcare contacts and insights for foreigners.
How Does Urgent Care Work in Brazil?
If you’re a tourist in Brazil with a non-life-threatening issue, you might wonder whether to go to a public hospital, private clinic, or try online consultations. The right choice depends on how severe your condition is, where you are, and whether you’re prepared to pay out of pocket or through travel insurance.
Is urgent care a thing in Brazil?
Brazil doesn’t have an official “urgent care clinic” network like in the US or Europe, but there are alternatives that serve a similar purpose:
- Public Hospital Emergency Rooms (Pronto-Socorro) – These are open to everyone, including tourists, and handle both urgent and emergency cases. The downside is long waits, especially for non-critical conditions, and limited English support. But always remember that if you’re having minor issues only, avoid ER visits; use telemedicine services or visit private clinics instead.
- Private Clinics & Hospitals – It’s best to consult these kinds of healthcare facilities if you really need in-person care, such as laboratory diagnostics like blood chemistry, ultrasound, X-ray, etc. These facilities are more likely to have English-speaking staff.
- Telemedicine & Online Consultations – Telehealth has grown rapidly in Brazil, especially after the pandemic. It’s travel-friendly and mostly opted by busy tourists because of convenience. If you’re having common minor conditions such as fevers, stomach bugs, or mild skin issues, telemedicine services like Doctorsa issue electronic prescriptions that are valid in pharmacies across the country. This option saves time and is especially useful if you’re traveling outside big cities.
Prescriptions in Brazil
In Brazil, many common medicines like cold remedies, and antacids are available over the counter in pharmacies (farmácias). However, antibiotics, controlled substances, and stronger pain medication strictly require a doctor’s prescription. Tourists should also note that some brand names may differ from what they know back home, so local equivalents are often provided.
How To Get a Prescription in Brazil
The process for tourists is simple once you know the steps:
- See a Licensed Doctor – To get a prescription, you’ll need to consult a doctor first. This can be done at a private clinic, public hospital (posto de saúde), or through telemedicine. Private clinics are usually faster and more accommodating for foreigners, while public hospitals may have longer waits and limited English support.
- Bring Your Documentation – If you’re already on medication, carry your original prescription, packaging, or a doctor’s note from home. Brazilian doctors can then prescribe the correct dosage or suggest the local equivalent.
- Get the Prescription – Doctors in Brazil may issue either a paper or online prescription. Make sure it contains the medication name, dosage, and doctor’s credentials.
- Go to a Pharmacy (Farmácia) – Pharmacies are easy to find in both big cities and small towns. Pharmacists are generally helpful and can explain how to use the medication.
- Check Validity and Quantity – Short-term prescriptions (like antibiotics) must usually be filled quickly, while chronic medications are prescribed in limited amounts depending on your stay as a tourist.
⭐️ PRO TIP: Consider Telemedicine
Telemedicine services in Brazil have expanded rapidly, allowing you to consult a doctor online and receive an electronic prescription you can use at any local pharmacy. This option is especially useful if you’re short on time or prefer English-speaking doctors. Just take note that if you’ll need controlled medication (e.g. opioids, stimulants, narcotics), online health services aren’t for you as controlled substances can’t be issued or prescribed online.
Online prescription refill in Brazil
Brazil’s modern e-prescription system lets doctors issue digital prescriptions (receitas eletrônicas) valid at any licensed pharmacy. This makes it easier for both locals and tourists to get refills without needing to visit a clinic in person. Online medical consultations have become common in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, and many telemedicine platforms now cater to English-speaking patients. Take note that controlled substances cannot be prescribed online; in‑person assessment and a physically signed prescription may be required.
Advantages of Online Prescriptions for Tourists in Brazil
- Convenience – Book a video consultation from your hotel or Airbnb and skip long public clinic lines.
- Tourist-Friendly – Many telemedicine services have English-speaking doctors who are familiar with helping international visitors.
- Fast and Secure – Prescriptions are sent digitally to your email or directly to a nearby pharmacy, reducing waiting time.
- Insurance-Friendly – Keep your receipts and electronic copies to make travel insurance claims easier.
Step-by-Step: Getting a Prescription Refill Online in Brazil
- Book a Telemedicine Appointment – Choose a licensed Brazilian doctor via an online platform or app. Have your passport, medication, and any previous prescription ready.
- Attend the Video Consultation – Discuss your condition, dosage, and medical history. If appropriate, the doctor will issue an e-prescription.
- Receive the Prescription – You’ll get a digital copy by email or a QR code that can be scanned directly at a pharmacy (farmácia).
- Visit a Pharmacy – Show the digital or printed version of your prescription along with your ID. Pharmacists can dispense your medication and explain proper usage.
- Pick Up Your Medicine – If your exact brand isn’t available, the pharmacist may provide a local or generic equivalent. Always keep the receipt for insurance or follow-up care.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Antibiotics & Controlled Drugs: Strictly require a valid prescription approved by ANVISA (Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency). Take note that controlled substances can’t be prescribed through online consultations.
- Short-Term Refills: Doctors usually prescribe only enough for your stay as a visitor.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are common in cities and often open late, but rural areas may have limited hours.
How to Get Antibiotics in Brazil
In Brazil, antibiotics cannot be sold without a valid prescription from a licensed doctor — a rule strictly enforced by ANVISA (the National Health Surveillance Agency). Tourists who need antibiotics must first consult a doctor, either at a private clinic, hospital, or through a telemedicine platform. During your consultation, the doctor will evaluate your symptoms (for example, fever, throat infection, or urinary tract infection) and determine whether antibiotics are appropriate.
Once prescribed, you’ll usually receive a digital prescription (receita eletrônica), which you can show at any pharmacy (farmácia). Most pharmacies in Brazil stock common antibiotics, though brand names may differ from what you’re used to at home. It’s helpful to bring your original packaging or a doctor’s note from your country to help pharmacists identify the local equivalent.
What to Do in Case of an Emergency in Brazil
If you suddenly run out of your prescription medication or experience a medical issue while in Brazil, there are several ways to get help—depending on the urgency of your situation.
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Book a Telemedicine Consultation (Best for Tourists)
If your condition isn’t life-threatening, start with a telemedicine service. Platforms like Doctorsa, Conexa Saúde, or DocPass let you connect with locally licensed doctors within minutes: no waiting rooms, no language barriers. Doctorsa is especially traveler-friendly, offering English-speaking general practitioners and specialists who can quickly assess your condition, issue a digital prescription, and even guide you on where to fill it nearby. Consultations start at around $20, and prescriptions can be sent directly to your email or the nearest pharmacy.
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Visit a Hospital or Private Clinic (For Urgent or Serious Cases)
Public hospitals (hospitais públicos) in Brazil are open 24/7 and handle emergencies through self-admission, meaning you can walk in without an appointment. However, these facilities often experience long wait times—especially during tourist seasons—and English-speaking staff may be limited. Private hospitals and clinics, while faster and more comfortable, usually require upfront payment or valid travel insurance.
That said, it’s best to avoid going to the emergency room for non-urgent concerns, as overcrowded ERs are a common issue during peak travel periods. Not only will you likely wait for hours after triage, but you’ll also take attention away from patients in true medical distress. For mild infections, prescription refills, allergic reactions, or other common traveler ailments, telemedicine with Doctorsa is often the better, faster option.
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Bring Proof of Your Medication
Always keep your medicine packaging, past prescriptions, or a note from your home doctor. This helps local physicians verify your dosage and find the closest equivalent available in Brazil.
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Go to a Pharmacy (Farmácia)
Present your e-prescription or printed prescription, along with your passport or ID, to purchase your medication. Pharmacists can also recommend generic alternatives if your brand isn’t in stock.
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Keep Your Receipts
Always request a detailed nota fiscal (itemized receipt) which is essential for travel insurance claims or reimbursement later on.
Common Conditions Tourists Experience in Brazil
Traveling through Brazil offers endless opportunities, from soaking up the sun in Rio de Janeiro to trekking through the Amazon rainforest, but like any tropical destination, travelers can face a few common health issues. The combination of intense heat, humidity, and regional differences in climate and hygiene can catch tourists off guard. While most ailments are mild and treatable, it helps to know what to expect and how to stay healthy during your stay. Below are some of the most common health problems visitors may experience while traveling in Brazil and how local doctors, clinics, and telemedicine services can help.
Top 5 Most Common Tourist Health Issues in Brazil
1. Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion
Brazil’s tropical sun can be deceptively strong, even on cloudy days. Tourists who spend long hours at the beach, hiking, or sightseeing outdoors often experience sunburn or mild heat exhaustion, especially if they’re not used to high UV levels. Symptoms may include redness, peeling skin, headaches, fatigue, and dehydration. Severe cases can cause dizziness or fainting, particularly in coastal regions like Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Recife. To prevent this, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear light clothing, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you develop severe sunburn or heat exhaustion, visit a local clinic for oral rehydration solutions or cooling treatments — most pharmacies (farmácias) also stock soothing aloe-based gels.
2. Mosquito Bites and Dengue Fever Risk
Mosquitoes are a fact of life in Brazil, particularly in tropical and humid areas such as the Amazon basin and the country’s northern states. Beyond being an itchy nuisance, they can also transmit diseases like dengue fever, Zika virus, or chikungunya — all of which remain active in certain regions during the rainy season. Dengue symptoms may include high fever, muscle pain, and rash, and should not be self-medicated without consulting a doctor. Fortunately, most tourist destinations have accessible clinics or telemedicine platforms where doctors can quickly assess symptoms and prescribe treatment or testing. To reduce your risk, use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves in the evening, and sleep with screens or mosquito nets when traveling in rural areas.
3. Traveler’s Diarrhea and Stomach Upsets
Adjusting to Brazil’s cuisine can sometimes lead to mild stomach troubles, especially if you’re not used to local ingredients, spices, or water. While Brazilian food is flavorful and varied, eating street food, raw salads, or unpasteurized drinks can occasionally cause traveler’s diarrhea or mild food poisoning. Common symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, and loose stools, which typically go away within a few days. To lower your risk, stick to bottled or filtered water, dine at reputable restaurants, and avoid ice cubes unless you’re sure they’re made from safe water. Pharmacies in Brazil sell oral rehydration salts and over-the-counter medications that can ease discomfort. If your symptoms last longer than two or three days, or if you develop a fever, it’s best to consult a doctor in person or through telemedicine, as you may need antibiotics for a bacterial infection.
4. Respiratory Infections and Seasonal Colds
In major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, tourists sometimes experience coughs, sore throats, or mild respiratory infections. The combination of urban air pollution, fluctuating temperatures between outdoor heat and indoor air-conditioning, and long flights can weaken your immune system. Most of these infections are viral and resolve within a week, but persistent fever or chest discomfort may require medical evaluation. Brazilian pharmacies sell many common cold remedies without a prescription, and telemedicine consultations can help determine whether you need further treatment. Staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and avoiding sudden temperature changes can help prevent these ailments while traveling.
5. Minor Injuries and Muscle Strain
Adventure and eco-tourism are huge draws in Brazil, from surfing in Florianópolis to hiking in Chapada Diamantina or exploring the Pantanal. However, these activities sometimes lead to sprains, muscle soreness, or minor cuts and bruises. Public hospitals can handle emergencies, but private clinics and urgent care centers (pronto atendimento) tend to offer faster, more tourist-friendly service. If the injury isn’t severe, many pharmacies sell first-aid supplies and topical anti-inflammatory gels over the counter. For muscle strain, local doctors might prescribe muscle relaxants or recommend rest and hydration to aid recovery. Travel insurance usually covers minor treatment costs, so always keep your receipts for potential reimbursement.
Online Medical Services in Brazil
Accessing healthcare in Brazil as a tourist is easier than ever with the growing availability of online medical services. Whether you’re in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Florianópolis, or exploring the Amazon, you can quickly connect with licensed Brazilian doctors who regularly assist international travelers. Get medical guidance, prescriptions, and convenient follow-up care online—without long queues, complex procedures, or language barriers.
Explore local medical options below:
Medical Services in Sao Paulo
Medical Services in Rio De Janeiro
Medical Services in Brasília
Medical Services in Belo Horizonte
Medical Services in Curitiba
Medical Services in Porto Alegre
Medical Services in Florianópolis
Medical Services in Recife
Medical Services in Fortaleza
Medical Services in Campinas
Medical Services in Fernando De Noronha
Medical Services in Jericoacoara
Medical Services in Ilha Grande
Medical Services in Porto De Galinhas
Medical Services in Lencois Maranhenses
Medical Services in Chapada Diamantina
Medical Services in Pantanal
Medical Services in Foz Do Iguacu
Medical Services in Paraty
Medical Services in Manaus
Emergency Help in Brazil
Dealing with a medical emergency while traveling can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure how Brazil’s healthcare system works. Tourists in Brazil can receive care at public hospitals (SUS – Sistema Único de Saúde), but wait times are often long, and English is rarely spoken. Many visitors prefer to go to private hospitals or clinics, which usually offer faster, higher-quality care and English-speaking staff—though these services require upfront payment.
It’s important to know how to react in different situations, whether that means calling emergency services, heading to the nearest hospital, or booking a quick telemedicine consultation. Being prepared can make a big difference, especially if you’re traveling through large cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, or Salvador, where healthcare options vary.
The guide below lists Brazil’s key emergency numbers and explains who to contact in case of accidents, severe illness, or other urgent medical situations.
Emergency Contact Numbers in Brazil
Keep these important numbers handy while visiting Brazil:
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192 – Medical Emergencies (SAMU): Call for urgent medical help or to request an ambulance. This connects you to Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência (SAMU), which provides first-response medical assistance nationwide.
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193 – Fire Department: For fires, accidents, rescues, or hazardous situations. Firefighters often handle road and water emergencies too.
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190 – Police: Contact for crimes, theft, or immediate security assistance.
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199 – Civil Defense: For natural disasters, flooding, or other public safety emergencies.
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185 – Coast Guard (Capitania dos Portos): For maritime emergencies, including boating or diving incidents.
- +55 61 2030-8500 – Tourist Police (DEAT, Rio de Janeiro): Specialized police assistance for tourists who experience theft, loss, or other issues. English and Spanish support is often available.
Understanding Emergencies in Brazil
Not every health problem requires a trip to the emergency room. Knowing when and where to seek help can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress while traveling in Brazil.
What Counts as a Medical Emergency?
Situations are considered emergencies when they pose an immediate risk to your life or require urgent medical attention. This includes severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, serious allergic reactions, high fever that doesn’t subside, or major accidents. In these cases, call 192 (for SAMU, Brazil’s medical emergency and ambulance service) or go directly to the nearest hospital.
How Long Should I Wait Before Seeing a Doctor?
Minor issues such as mild food poisoning, dehydration, sunburn, or insect bites can often be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medicine from a pharmacy (farmácia). However, if symptoms persist for more than a day or two, or if they worsen, it’s best to consult a doctor. Private clinics and telemedicine services are widely available in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, and often have English-speaking doctors who can assist tourists more quickly than the public system.
What Happens If I Have a Medical Emergency and Need a Hospital?
If you call 192, SAMU (Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência) will send an ambulance to take you to the nearest hospital—either public (SUS) or private. Public hospitals in Brazil are legally required to provide emergency care, even for foreigners, but wait times can be long and English support limited. Private hospitals are faster, more comfortable, and more likely to have English-speaking staff, though you’ll need to pay upfront or provide proof of travel insurance. Always carry your passport, travel insurance documents, and any relevant medical information.
Avoid Using Emergency Services for Non-Life Threatening Situations
Public emergency departments in Brazil can be crowded, especially in large cities, and are meant for life-threatening cases. Using them for mild illnesses can lead to long waits and unnecessary expenses.
Here’s why tourists should only use ER services for real emergencies:
- Long waits: Non-urgent cases are treated last, so you could wait for hours.
- Unexpected costs: Tourists are typically billed for care in public and private hospitals.
- Better alternatives: Telemedicine services are faster and easier especially for non-severe issues as you can easily book a consultation within minutes at the comforts of your hotel or Airbnb. Private clinics and 24-hour urgent care centers are also great alternatives.
- Support the system: Limiting ER visits to serious cases helps ensure resources go to those in critical need.
Is the ER free in Brazil?
No. While emergency care in public hospitals is free for Brazilian citizens and residents under the SUS system, tourists are typically billed for treatment. Private hospitals always require payment upfront. If you have travel insurance, you can often claim reimbursement later—just be sure to keep all receipts and medical documentation.
Seeing a Doctor in Brazil
Whether you need a quick check-up, help for a minor illness, or a prescription refill, it’s helpful to know how doctor visits work in Brazil. Tourists generally have three main options: public hospitals, private clinics, and telemedicine services. Each offers different advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and language support.
In this section, we’ll walk you through what to expect when seeing a doctor in Brazil, how much it typically costs, and which services may be more accessible or efficient for travelers.
What to Expect at a Doctor’s Appointment
Doctor visits in Brazil are usually efficient, but your experience can vary depending on where you seek care:
Type of Healthcare |
Wait Time |
English-Speaking Staff |
Good For |
Private Clinics & Hospitals |
Short (same day to 2 days) |
Common in major cities |
Fast, comfortable service |
Public Hospitals (SUS) |
Long (hours to days) |
Rare outside large cities |
Emergencies, accidents |
Telemedicine / Online Consultations |
Very short (same day) |
Often available |
Minor illnesses, prescription refills |
Do Tourists Get Free Healthcare in Brazil?
No, tourists in Brazil do not get free healthcare. The country’s public healthcare system, known as SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde), offers free treatment mainly to Brazilian citizens and legal residents. While public hospitals may still provide emergency care to foreigners, non-residents are typically charged for consultations, tests, and medications. Because of this, having valid travel medical insurance is strongly recommended before your trip.
If you choose a private clinic, expect to pay around R$200–R$500 (USD $35–$90) for a general doctor visit, with specialists costing more. Telemedicine services are also widely available and can be more affordable — typically R$80–R$200 (USD $15–$35) — ideal for prescription refills or minor health concerns. Public hospitals may cost less, but they tend to have longer waits and fewer English-speaking staff. Always bring your passport and proof of insurance when seeking care.
Conclusion
In Brazil, tourists can access both public and private healthcare, but private clinics and telemedicine platforms are usually faster, easier, and more accommodating to foreigners. With your passport, insurance details, and a bit of preparation, getting medical help in Brazil can be simple and stress-free.
Get immediate care with an online doctor appointment
If you need immediate medical care and a quick prescription that you no longer have to go to a hospital or clinic physically, book a consultation through an online doctor. This can be done through Doctorsa.
Here’s your quick guide on how to book a consultation online:
- Fill out a quick intake form. Select the type of appointment you want to book: urgent care, same-day appointment, or prescription refill. Choose whether you are booking the medical appointment for you, your child, or for someone else.
- Choose a doctor. Doctors show their appointment time and options. Here, you’ll be able to compare prices, see reviews, and choose what works best for you. Pay online with credit card or with your insurance.
- Connect with your doctor. Video consultations are available 24/7, even just minutes after scheduling or booking. Prescriptions will be sent to you via email. You can also contact your doctor with follow-up questions within 7 days, for FREE!
In just three easy steps, you can get the professional doctor advice you need online, in just a few minutes, for as low as $20!
