The Regionalization Process for Universal Health Coverage in Brazil (2008-2015)

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Health Economics

Background:

• Brazil experienced economic growth and reduced social inequality from 2008-2015.
• This period saw significant expansion in private health insurance alongside public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the development of public and private healthcare provision for health service universalization in Brazil.
• To assess the progression of the public healthcare network between 2008 and 2015.

Main Methods:

• Multivariate analysis model applied across 5570 municipalities.
• Estimation of concentration and heterogeneity in healthcare capacity.
• Analysis of public investment, human resources, and establishment data.

Main Results:

• The Unified Health System (SUS) added 8000 primary care establishments, expanding coverage.
• Public healthcare universalization reached approximately 70% of municipalities.
• A 50% reduction in private primary care establishments was observed.

Conclusions:

• Brazil shows positive progress toward universal health services, particularly in primary care expansion.
• Concentration of high-complexity care and heterogeneity in capacity remain areas for improvement.