Ministry of Health deploys mobile units for specialized exams in Brazil

The Brazilian Ministry of Health is deploying specialized mobile health units through the ‘Agora Tem Especialistas’ program to expand access to diagnostic services for SUS patients in various regions.

In Maranhão, a mobile unit in Balsas is providing imaging exams, including computed tomography and ultrasounds. This initiative serves patients from Balsas and several surrounding municipalities, such as Alto Parnaíba and Carolina, aiming to reduce waiting lists and decentralize care to prevent the need for travel to major centers like São Luís.

In Ceará, a specialized mobile unit for women's health has been established in Caucaia. This unit focuses on the early diagnosis of breast and cervical cancer by offering mammographies, pelvic and transvaginal ultrasounds, biopsies, and specialist consultations. The unit can perform up to 60 appointments per day and serves Caucaia and nine other municipalities, including Apuiarés and Itapajé.

Both initiatives require patients to be pre-scheduled and referred through their respective municipal health secretariats via a Basic Health Unit (UBS).