Marcelo de Araujo. Image: reveal
At times like these, when people are more aware of their well-being, we are seeing an explosion of health insurance takings. According to data from the National Agency for Complementary Health, more than 25.4 million Brazilians benefit from this type of care. However, the high values and bureaucracy that the plans require means that 7 out of 10 Brazilians still rely on the Unified Health System (SUS) according to a survey by the International Institute of Statistics (IBGE), which totals about 150 million people.
I present another fact relevant to the public service of the country. A survey conducted by the Legislative Assembly of Mato Grosso (ALMT) with data available in the SUS database, revealed that the patient’s vision period in the specialty is 493 days, that is, more than 16 months. While waiting, many people are at risk of putting their lives at risk, because late care can make disease progression irreversible.
In a deeper discussion, we can assess how important social security-style reform is to the entire public and private health system in Brazil. Start, for example, by automating medical records, prescriptions and exams taken. This will almost completely eliminate medical errors and, most importantly, make it easier to access a patient’s medical history no matter where they see it.
Such a solution has already become a reality in important specialized medical centers, which are currently emerging to fill the gap caused by the inefficiency of the public service and the difficulties in accessing private health plans. They provide healthcare services with qualified professionals at affordable rates, with prices starting from R$50. When these institutions are combined, the entire process, from anamnesis to tests, is performed in one location, improving patients’ time.
In addition, we cannot forget to appreciate the main players in the sector, without which it would be impossible to provide high-quality service. Physicians, physiotherapists, dieticians, and dentists, among others, need recognition for their work, starting with payment. Forget about picking up only at the end of the month or the weekend. In each service, the amount must be transferred within 24 hours so that the professional feels encouraged and appreciated.
Technology is the main tool for improving the entire healthcare sector. In addition to the solutions mentioned above, telemedicine is an important ally in this process, providing access with quality and security, and promoting social distance – which is very important at this time.
Technology reduces bureaucracy, welcomes and resolves, all in an accessible way and without harming the patient’s health by worrying about how to take care of them.
* Marcelo de Araujo is CEO of Consultare
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