Brazil Ministry of Health extends specialist doctors' contracts until 2027

The Brazilian Ministry of Health has extended the contracts of 676 medical specialists from the Mais Médicos Especialistas (PMM-E) project until February 2027. This extension aims to ensure uninterrupted service in municipalities while the government prepares a new public notice, expected in December 2026.

The program currently involves approximately 2,000 specialists nationwide, including about 500 anesthesiologists who are vital for increasing surgical capacity within the Unified Health System (SUS). More than half of these professionals (52%) work in rural or interior regions, and in some locations, they provide up to 75% of specialized services.

Participation in the extension is not automatic; doctors must meet specific requirements regarding professional development, activity performance, and administrative regularity, as well as obtain approval from local health managers. Professionals in the program receive up to R$ 20,000 for 20 hours of weekly work, which includes 16 hours of clinical assistance and four hours of continuous education.