Actions of risk/disease prevention by private health insurance companies

Abstract

The present research aims to describe the profile of health promotion and risks/diseases prevention programs developed by 29 private healthcare providers in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive exploratory study that used data provided by the National Health Insurance Agency. In May 2008, private health insurance providers were sent a request for information on their health promotion and risks/diseases prevention programs. The programs profiles were characterized by distribution tables of absolute frequencies and /or by variables of interest. The risks/diseases prevention actions were performed by 41.4% of the providers. The diseases/health conditions more emphasized in adult and elderly clients were diabetes mellitus, hypertension, overweight/obesity, and healthy eating. Implementation of the programs decreased the number of examinations, consultations, emergency attendances, and healthcare costs. Up until now results can be considered positive. However the increase in the number of private health care providers offering such programs is needed as well as the integration of health actions plans, and the emphasis on health promotion.