Bioethics perspective model supplemental assistance in Brazil

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study about the private health plans and insurance, called supplementaryhealth, which were regulated in Brazil more than a decade ago in order to solve conflicts in the provision ofservices. The model of care, the issues resolved, those that remain and the ones that emerged during this periodwere described and analyzed, using a qualitative methodology. The results show that the supplementarysector made little progress from the model based on the list of diseases and procedures, approved as a referenceplan, increasing conflicts regarding the incorporation of technologies and the increase of the demand andcosts, due to the aging of the population. Regulatory policies that hurt the bioethical principles contained in theNational Health System were consolidated, mainly regarding the assistance to the most vulnerable, pregnantwomen and the elderly. Regulation is lacking, by the State, in the adequacy of the supplementary area with otherpublic policies, in the sense of perfecting the quality of care and expanding healthcare cove- rage equitably.