Doctor and patient in social security medical exam room

Doctor and patient in an INSS medical examination room, a crucial moment for granting social security benefits in Brazil.

About this subject

The INSS medical examination is a mandatory step for granting benefits such as sickness aid, disability retirement, and the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC). During this exam, a medical expert evaluates the insured person's health condition, determining whether the work incapacity is temporary or permanent. The process is regulated by Law 8.213/91 and requires the expert to be a civil servant approved through a public competition, ensuring impartiality.

The examination room is typically equipped with a stretcher, scale, sphygmomanometer, and other basic instruments. The doctor analyzes medical certificates, complementary exams, and reports, in addition to performing a physical examination. The average consultation lasts 15 to 20 minutes but may vary depending on case complexity. In 2023, the INSS conducted about 5 million medical examinations, a number that highlights the high demand and system overload.

The waiting list for the examination is a chronic problem. In 2024, the average scheduling time exceeded 30 days in several regions, leading to lawsuits and court orders. The federal government implemented the "Digital Examination" program to streamline the process, allowing insured individuals to submit documents electronically. However, in-person examinations are still required for most benefits, especially long-term ones.

Curiosity: the term "perícia" comes from Latin "peritia," meaning experience or skill. At INSS, the expert must have specialization in occupational medicine or medical expertise, in addition to CRM registration. The profession is regulated by CFM Resolution 2.183/2018, which establishes ethical and technical standards for conducting examinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the INSS medical examination?

It is an assessment carried out by a civil servant medical expert to verify if the insured person has work incapacity. The result determines the granting of benefits such as sickness aid or disability retirement.

How long does the medical examination take?

On average, 15 to 20 minutes, but it can be longer depending on case complexity and the amount of documents presented.

What should I bring to the INSS medical examination?

Personal documents (ID, CPF), medical exams, certificates, prescriptions, and reports proving the health condition. It is also recommended to bring the benefit number and appointment confirmation.