João Pessoa launches digital Fibromyalgia card application

The municipal health department of João Pessoa, Brazil, will from Thursday, 6 May, accept requests for the Municipal Fibromyalgia Card exclusively through the “João Pessoa na Palma da Mão” mobile app. The digital process standardises issuance, expands accessibility and provides faster, more secure and transparent tracking of applications.

The card, intended for people diagnosed with fibromyalgia, helps identify users for rights under existing legislation and for priority service in public and private facilities. Applicants must submit a recent 3×4 photo, a government‑issued ID, a selfie holding the ID, a proof of residence issued within the last three months, and medical reports from at least two of the following specialties – neurology, rheumatology or psychiatry – signed with a CRM number, CID code and dated no more than 180 days ago. Processing may take up to 60 days, after which the card is delivered only in digital form within the app; no physical version will be issued. Existing pending requests can also be monitored through the platform.

Health Secretary Luis Ferreira said the digital card “is an important instrument for guaranteeing rights and recognising the specific needs of these people,” while Rochelle Caramuru, director of specialised care, explained that the new system “facilitates access, reduces bureaucracy and offers greater convenience while maintaining security.”