Local services in Brazil
Healthcare in Brazil is a constitutional right. It is provided by both private and government institutions. Public healthcare is provided to all Brazilian permanent residents and foreigners in Brazilian territory through the National Healthcare System, known as the Unified Health System. The Brazilian Health Care sector is one of the largest and fastest growing markets in the world. According to industry analysts, Brazil spends and invests approximately 9 % of its GDP annually on health care. The country has 7,000 hospitals, 70% of which are privately owned. Medical equipment and pharmaceutical imports continue to grow at more than 10% a year. Education in Brazil has had many changes. The Federal Government of Brazil regulates this country’s educational system through the Ministry of Education. The private sector schools are of a far superior nature, but are costly, while the public-sector schooling is free of charge. School is compulsory for all children between seven and 14 years of age. However, this is seldom enforced, as many children live in rural areas or have to work to make money for their families instead of spending time at school.
