Brazil emergency services: guidance on SAMU, Fire Department, and health units

In Brazil, understanding the distinction between different emergency and healthcare services is essential for timely medical assistance. For immediate emergency calls, the SAMU (Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência) via number 192 is designated for health-related emergencies such as fainting, seizures, respiratory difficulties, heart attacks, or strokes. SAMU provides pre-hospital care and patient transport to appropriate medical units.

In contrast, the Fire Department (Corpo de Bombeiros) via number 193 should be contacted for rescue operations, including fires, drownings, or victims trapped in vehicle wreckage. In complex scenarios, both services may work together.

Regarding the public health network, patients are advised to choose facilities based on the severity of their symptoms. Basic Health Units (UBS) serve as the primary entry point for the Unified Health System (SUS), handling prevention, vaccinations, and routine consultations for mild symptoms like low fever or cough. Urgent care for medium-complexity cases is managed by 24-hour Urgent Care Units (UPA), while high-complexity emergencies and specialized treatments are handled by public hospitals.