Brazilian Bill Suspends New Private Medical Schools for Five Years

A bill in Brazil's Chamber of Deputies (PL 1165/26) proposes a five‑year moratorium on the creation of new private medical courses and on expanding existing seat numbers. The legislation would require the federal government to monitor institutions that performed poorly in the 2025 ENEM (Enamed) exam, conducting on‑site evaluations and enforcing restructuring measures. Public medical schools—federal, state and municipal—are exempt provided they meet minimum quality standards.

The proposal sets minimum criteria for private programs, including a dedicated or partnered health‑care network for practical training, adequate facilities for internships, qualified preceptors, simulation labs, a limited student‑to‑supervisor ratio, and integration with the public health system (SUS). It also outlines penalties for non‑compliance, such as bans on new seats, gradual seat reductions, mandatory restructuring plans, and possible de‑accreditation. The bill is currently under committee review and must be approved by both the Chamber and the Senate to become law.