Technological incorporation in the Unified Health System (SUS): The problem and ensuing challenges

Abstract

Technological incorporation is a central topic among the concerns regarding health care systems. This paper discusses the role of technology dynamics in health systems’ cost increases, suggesting two different approaches - a ‘pragmatic-economic’ approach and a ‘rational-defensive’ approach as guidelines to explain the reasons for this centrality. The paper shows how judicialization results from this situation and discusses two doctrinal views ‘reserve for contingencies’ and ‘rational use’ as the views that usually guide the debates in the courts and among health policy makers. The paper suggests that the attitude currently prevalent in the Brazilian judiciary system can prejudice the principle of equity by improperly evaluating the principle of integrality. We present a brief genealogy of HTA and a timeline of HTA in Brazil. We also discuss the relevance and the impact of Law 12401/2011, which regulates the principle of integrality in the Unified Health System (SUS) and propose three challenges to the development of HTA actions aiming at technology incorporation in Brazil. Finally, we discuss the entry and the role of private health insurance companies, emphasizing changes in the scenario, and in their position.