Doctor and patient in social security medical exam room

Doctor and patient during a social security medical examination at an INSS office.

About this subject

The INSS medical examination is a mandatory assessment for granting benefits such as sickness leave, disability retirement, and the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC). Conducted by a federal medical expert, the consultation verifies the insured person's work incapacity based on clinical exams and medical documentation. The process takes place at Social Security agencies across Brazil, scheduled via phone 135 or the Meu INSS website.

In 2023, the INSS performed about 5 million medical exams, reflecting the high demand for disability benefits. The average duration of an exam is 15 to 20 minutes, during which the expert analyzes medical certificates, prescriptions, and imaging exams, and performs a directed physical examination. The expert's decision is final and based on technical and legal criteria.

The examination room follows accessibility and privacy standards, with furniture including an examination table, desk, and computer for electronic recording of the report. The environment is well-lit and symmetric to ensure comfort and safety. A companion is allowed only in specific cases, such as mobility or communication difficulties.

Curiosity: the term 'perícia' comes from Latin 'peritia', meaning 'experience' or 'practical knowledge'. In the social security context, the medical exam is one of the most sensitive stages, as it directly impacts the financial and social life of Brazilian workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the INSS medical examination?

It is an assessment performed by a federal medical expert to verify whether the insured person is temporarily or permanently unable to work, essential for granting benefits such as sickness leave and disability retirement.

How to schedule an appointment at INSS?

Appointments can be made by phone at 135 (INSS Service Center) or through the Meu INSS website (meu.inss.gov.br). You need to have personal and medical documents proving the incapacity.

What to bring on the day of the medical exam?

A photo ID, CPF, appointment confirmation, medical certificates, prescriptions, complementary exams, and reports justifying the work incapacity.