ANS public call addresses discount cards, prepaid cards, and similar products in the healthcare sector

Brazil’s National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS) published Public Call Notice No. 4/2026 to obtain contributions and operational data regarding discount cards, prepaid cards, and similar services in the healthcare sector. The measure is aimed at supporting the upcoming regulation of the sector. 

In addition to the notice, the ANS established an internal committee (Presidential Ordinance No. 8/2026) to assess the market and support the Agency’s Collegiate Board in the decision-making process on the matter. The initiative marks progress in regulating the discount and prepaid cards sector, especially given the Superior Court of Justice’s (STJ) recognition of the ANS’s authority to regulate this category of products and services.

Given the lack of consolidated data on companies’ operating models and practices in this sector, the ANS deemed it appropriate to gather information directly from the market before proposing specific rules.

The supply of discount card services has grown in line with consumer demand for alternative ways to access medical consultations, exams, and procedures in the private sector.

The ANS is gathering information to evaluate:

• The structure and operation of the services offered
• Potential limitations, conditions of use, and exclusions
• Payment methods, adjustments, and cancellation
• The service network model (in-house, accredited, or free choice)
• The prices charged, and the profile of the clientele served
• Economic and financial information of the companies

Legal entities engaged in these services may submit contributions by August 3, 2026, through the electronic form available on the ANS portal.

Participating in the public call is a strategic opportunity: by providing qualified input to the ANS, regulated entities can help shape regulations that more accurately reflect the business model’s reality, its purpose, and the sector’s challenges.

Demarest’s Life Sciences and Healthcare team is available to provide further clarification.