Social Participation to Ensure Pharmaceutical Services in Brazil

The National Pharmaceutical Policy (PNAF) is consolidated through historical and regulatory milestones that ensured its inclusion in the government agenda. Using Kingdon's multiple streams model, this study describes how Health Conferences, Laws No. 8,080 and No. 8,142 of 1990, the National Medicines Policy, and the First National Conference on Medicines and Pharmaceutical Services led to PNAF's approval by the National Health Council (CNS). The study conducts a documentary analysis of the proposals approved at the 17th National Health Conference, identifying the PNAF's strategic lines, emphasizing social participation. The multiple streams model is used to correlate decisions and issues identified throughout the policy formulation process, highlighting how the PNAF was structured and the influences of civil society. The sustainability of pharmaceutical services in the Unified Health System (SUS) stems from effective social participation, and CNS is the key body for this achievement, ensuring the continuity of pharmaceutical services as a public policy. The approved proposals reflect the commitment to the universalization and improvement of access to essential medicines, which are vital for the health of Brazilians.