Health Care Under Pressure: Consumers Call for Change in Brazil’s Health Plan Regulations
In a bustling São Paulo office, the air is thick with concern. Luiz Orsatti Filho, the Executive Director of Procon-SP, sits at his desk, surrounded by stacks of reports and consumer complaints. The digital clock on the wall ticks down the days until a pivotal public consultation period regarding new health plan regulations closes, a timeline that many believe is far too short. With the deadline looming just days away, Orsatti and his team are racing against time to ensure that the voices of consumers are heard in a discussion that could reshape the landscape of health insurance in Brazil.
The urgency stems from a public consultation opened by the National Agency of Supplementary Health (ANS) on December 19, a time when many organizations are on break for the holidays. The consultation is set to end on February 3, an inadequate window for such a complex issue that has become a significant concern for the Brazilian population. Procon-SP has emerged as a vocal advocate for consumers, participating in public hearings scheduled for January 28 and 29, which have also been arranged with little notice. These hearings will address critical issues, including rate adjustments and contract terminations in collective plans, financial regulatory mechanisms, the sale of plans online, and the technical review of individual and family plan prices.
The challenges of navigating these convoluted regulations are profound. Orsatti argues that the current timeframe does not allow for a thorough analysis of the proposals. He emphasizes that any regulation concerning the Technical Review should not precede the rectification of underlying issues, such as the lack of clear data on pricing and cost composition. Furthermore, he insists on the importance of incentivizing consumer participation in health promotion programs and organizing care that better suits the aging population and evolving epidemiological factors.
As the clock ticks down, the stakes grow higher. Procon-SP’s stance reflects a deep-seated concern for the consumer experience in a market that has seen a significant rise in collective contracts over the years, often without the necessary regulatory adjustments. This gap has led to widespread distortions, as consumers have increasingly reported issues such as exorbitant rate increases and unilateral contract cancellations—problems that defined the health care landscape in 2024.
Orsatti’s passion is palpable as he addresses the pressing need for effective action from the ANS. “Our mission is to ensure that consumers are protected from the abuses committed by health plan operators,” he states firmly. “It’s essential to recognize that many consumers are in a position of hyper-vulnerability, and that is why we are advocating for extended deadlines for discussions on new sector rules.”
Through Procon-SP’s relentless efforts, there is a glimmer of hope for consumers who have long felt neglected in the health insurance system. The agency remains committed to cooperating with the ANS in the regulatory process and will submit contributions aimed at fostering consumer protection while ensuring a balance in consumer relations.
Ultimately, the ongoing dialogue about health plan regulations in Brazil is more than just a bureaucratic exercise; it’s about safeguarding the well-being of millions of individuals. As Orsatti reflects on the urgency of their cause, he underscores a fundamental truth: “Guaranteeing protection for consumers is not just a regulatory duty; it is a moral obligation.” In a world where health care is paramount, extending the time for discussions could lead to a more equitable system that truly serves the needs of the people.
