National Health Force provides over 700 medical services to individuals repatriated from the US

The National Health Force - organized by Brazil’s Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde/SUS) – has provided more than 700 medical services to Brazilians repatriated from the United States.  In total, 199 medical consultations, 489 psychosocial support sessions, and 34 mental health services have been provided so far. Promoted by the Federal Government and coordinated by the Ministry of Health (Ministério da Saúde/MS), the reception operation mobilizes different assistance fronts. The operation spans from the arrival of repatriated individuals in Fortaleza — the main entry point into Brazil — to monitoring passengers on the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) flight bound for Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, ensuring healthcare throughout the entire journey.

“Our presence in welcoming the returned is key to providing medical assistance and psychosocial support, ensuring all the necessary care since their arrival. This coordinated action by various agencies highlights the importance of an integrated response in emergency situations,” stated the general coordinator of the National Health Force, Rodrigo Stabeli.

INTERMINISTERIAL — The operation is part of a Federal Government initiative that brings together several public agencies. In addition to the Ministry of Health, the Federal Police (Polícia Federal) is responsible for migration and airport security procedures. In partnership with the Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship (Ministério dos Direitos Humanos e da Cidadania/MDH), the Advanced Post for Humanized Assistance to Migrants (PAAHM) was set up at Fortaleza Airport to provide immediate support to repatriated Brazilians.

RECEPTION POST — Passengers arriving in Belo Horizonte have access to a Reception Post with free access to the Internet, cell phone chargers, and guidance regarding public services including health, social assistance, and work opportunities. “The SUS National Health Force provides emergency assistance and initial psychological support, offering welcoming and humanized services to the Brazilians returning from the United States,” highlighted Nurse Amanda Dantas, a National Health Force focal point in the mission.