Brazil’s Ministry of Health has launched a free telehealth service through the country’s public healthcare system to support people experiencing problems related to gambling and betting.
The service will operate through SUS, Brazil’s universal public healthcare system that provides free medical services to residents across the country.
The initiative is expected to initially provide around 600 teleconsultations per month and is being implemented in partnership with Hospital Sírio-Libanês in São Paulo.
According to the Ministry of Health, the program was developed in response to growing concerns about problematic gambling behaviors, particularly related to online betting platforms.
Officials say many individuals experiencing gambling-related harm are reluctant to seek in-person care due to stigma or difficulty acknowledging the issue.
Health Minister Alexandre Padilha said telehealth services may help reduce these barriers by allowing individuals and families to access support remotely.
“Often, there is difficulty in admitting the problem, shame and still a lot of stigmatization. Therefore, we are creating tools so that families and friends can support those facing this situation, allowing direct contact with the Ministry of Health without the need to go to a health unit,” said Padilha.
The consultations will be conducted via video and typically last around 45 minutes. Patients may receive structured care cycles that include up to 13 sessions, delivered individually or in group settings that involve support networks.
The service is available to individuals aged 18 or older, as well as family members seeking guidance.
The program received BR2.5m ($479,075) in funding through the Program for Institutional Development of the Unified Health System and is part of a national strategy addressing gambling-related harms, such as the national guide on how to face problem gambling.
Brazil’s President Lula recently criticized the national expansion of online betting, warning that it is harming Brazilian families
