The Unified Health System as a strategic instrument of state public policy for national development and its challenges

Abstract

Considering the peculiarities of the health conditions of the Brazilian population and the need for better access to public services, this article makes a study on the importance of public health policy, materialized by the Unified Health System (SUS), as a strategic item for the development of the Country and for the configuration of territorial space, from the perspective of acting as a Strategic State, even under a strong context of fiscal restrictions. To this end, a bibliographic and documentary research methodology will be used, using qualitative and quantitative secondary data sources, understanding the theme, concepts and relevant theories. Health inequalities are discussed as a global and national issue to be considered and addressed; the factors of health demand and supply and their relationships with the territorial configuration and socioeconomic development to be considered in the definition of national health policy. It also discusses the current organization of the SUS and the difficulties in implementing its principles of universality and integrality, understanding obstacles faced by the SUS and their consequences, its financing and the impact of fiscal austerity. As a result and main conclusion, we have the understanding that public health and its potential have been neglected over the years, however, it should be seen by society and the government as a strategic policy because it is a factor that, in addition to ensuring health itself dictated and for the well-being of individuals, it conditions development and regional dynamics itself, with potential impact on income, employment, investments and innovations and even on the configuration of urban-rural territorial space. Furthermore, the SUS demonstrates that it lacks greater cohesion of social and political forces, which must be more aware and mobilized, for its defense and the achievements of Public Health.