Resource allocation for equity in Brazilian health care: a methodological model

Abstract

It is a fundamental requirement of governments to allocate resources to public services between institutions or populations that are potential competitors for funding. In Brazil, a country with clear social inequalities, this becomes particularly challenging and equitable. The study aims to present an individual-level matrix model for allocating health resources in the Unified Health System based on data from the National Health Survey (PNS) 2013. This model is based on the matrix of variables age, sex, education , employment and income and their relationships. A morbidity score is used to estimate weights for each category. This model provides an opportunity for managers to use objective methods that help decision making in a clear and Brazilian law based on health needs, epidemiological, demographic aspects, as well as the ability to offer services.