Health market in Rio de Janeiro is in transformation. The more competitive and complex situation generates a moment of uncertainties for managers, who search to readapt their units, stimulated by the challenge of guaranteeing the survival of the institutions. In this context, managers must adapt their management practices with the purpose of turning the health service companies more efficient, capable to fulfill society`s demands and produce a competitive advantage better than the one provided by its competitors. Therefore, this study aims at answering the following question: in the present context, which management practices would lead health service companies to obtain a competitive advantage through the efficient use of its own resources? In order to answer this question, was used the Resource-based view theory as a conceptual base for identifying the resources that generate value to the organizations and how they are managed. It is a descriptive study, since it proposes to present relevant characteristics of such health sector. It may also be characterized as a qualitative research, since it is based on subjective perceptions by members of the analyzed sector over certain events or situations. Research subjects are managers or persons occupying strategic positions in some of the major private hospital and clinics in Rio de Janeiro City. Fifteen persons with this profile have been interviewed. In addition to other aspects, results point out the affiliation to a verticalized network associated to a health plan and the management of the connected unit network, as elements representing a competitive advantage for some companies of the sector. Other relevant factors are the scale gains produced through a more efficient management of the physical resources and through a greater quantity and rotation of beds occupancy. Aspects such as hotel quality and diversification of health plans were identified as requirements for a competitive parity. Factors connected to technology and acquisition systems have shown themselves as sources of temporary advantage.