The program is funded through a BRL 2.5 million investment in Brazil’s public healthcare system, the Unified Health System (SUS). With the new service, users can access a remote consultation through the Meu SUS Digital mobile app.
Government Expands Support Through Digital Health Services
The telehealth initiative was developed with the support of Sírio-Libanês Hospital, located in São Paulo, which assisted with the program’s clinical structure design. The service, according to the Ministry of Health, should handle ~600 users per month during the initial stage of the program.
This remote care service has been introduced because of the demand for treatment that already exists. In 2025, the county’s public health system recorded 6,157 in-person care consultations related to gambling harm. The authorities believe that this service has the potential to expand access to care for those who might otherwise avoid health facilities.
Health authorities say that a majority of people affected by gambling problems are reluctant to seek help due to stigma or difficulty acknowledging their problems. With video consultations, the ministry hopes to reduce these barriers.
Structure of the Telehealth Treatment Program
Participants who sign up for this service may receive up to 13 consultations, which can be carried out on an individual or group basis. These appointments will be made by a multidisciplinary team of psychologists and occupational therapists.
Patients may also be referred to a psychiatrist for further support, if needed. The Unified Health System may provide additional support from family medicine teams and social services, according to the case in question.
Public Health Strategy and Market Context
Brazil has recently stepped up its level of regulation and oversight in the gambling industry, especially in the wake of the legalization and growth of online betting services. As the market evolves, there is a growing focus on responsible gambling and harm prevention strategies among policymakers.
The introduction of telehealth consultations is seen as part of a larger public health initiative to address behavioral addiction within the national health care system. New forms of digital treatment options have increasingly been used worldwide to assist people dealing with addiction.
What the Initiative Signals for Brazil
The new telehealth program suggests Brazilian authorities are beginning to treat gambling harm as a public health issue rather than solely a regulatory concern. By integrating behavioral addiction treatment into the existing national healthcare system and providing remote access, Brazil could be testing a template for a scalable behavioral addiction support service.
If the service proves to be effective and demand goes beyond the initial 600-user capacity, it could become an integral part of the country’s responsible gaming strategy in the long run.
