Doctor and patient in social security medical exam room

A doctor and an INSS beneficiary during a social security medical examination in a morning consultation room.

About this subject

The INSS medical examination is a mandatory step for granting disability benefits, such as sickness aid and disability retirement. Carried out by civil service medical experts, the evaluation analyzes clinical documentation and complementary exams to determine whether the work incapacity is temporary or permanent. About 70% of sickness aid requests are denied at the first analysis, according to INSS data, often due to lack of proper evidence or discrepancies between the medical certificate and the expert's findings. The exam is in-person and lasts an average of 15 to 20 minutes, extendable if further clarification is needed. Since 2019, INSS has adopted a documentary examination system for some cases, but most still require face-to-face assessment. The examination room is typically equipped with a desk, computer, and basic physical exam tools like a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer. The expert has the autonomy to request additional tests or refer the beneficiary to specialists if necessary. The doctor-patient relationship in this context is often tense, as the beneficiary must prove their condition while the expert seeks technical impartiality. Morning hours are the most common for appointments, with peak attendance between 8 AM and 10 AM. The medical examination is one of the main bottlenecks in the Brazilian social security system, with queues that can exceed 45 days in some regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an INSS medical examination last?

On average, the in-person exam lasts 15 to 20 minutes, but it may be longer if the expert needs further clarification or requests additional tests.

What should I bring to the INSS medical examination?

Photo ID, CPF, appointment confirmation, medical exams, reports, prescriptions, and certificates proving your health condition. The more complete your dossier, the better.

What is the denial rate for sickness aid requests?

About 70% of requests are denied at the first analysis, according to INSS. Many denials occur due to insufficient proof of incapacity.