Source: The Health Connection Newsletter | 2nd Quarter 2025
Brasilia, Brasil | South America Division (SAD)
After several years of planning, consultations, and study, the South American Division (SAD) acted to bring together all the health institutions owned by the Church in Brazil into one system headquartered in the country’s capital, Brasilia. Eight hospitals, five health clinics, five lifestyle centers, and four health insurance plans are now under one institution called Adventist Health. Their vision is to “become a health system known for excellence in health care, disease prevention, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, while integrating faith and science.” Their mission is to “serve, heal and save, promoting physical, mental, social and spiritual health and wellness, following on Christ example.” Their goal is to have a health care experience that is patient-centered, focusing on following the patient throughout their journey in the system. Adventist Health will prioritize disease prevention, health promotion, and treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases at the primary care level integrating lifestyle interventions to mainstream medical practices, leaving the hospital setting for acute and emergency interventions. The step to unify these institutions was seen as essential for long-term survival of these health institutions, saving in costs and strengthening the mission as they speak with one voice. The goal is to expand the system to include other SAD institutions in the future.
