Equity in the health system according to Brazilian bioethicists

Abstract

Objective: To understand the meaning attributed to equity in health system by Brazilian bioethicists. Methods: Qualitative and exploratory research. Between July 2007 and July 2008, 20 bioethicists, directors and former directors of the Sociedade Brasileira de Bioética (Brazilian Bioethics Society) and their regional administrations (2005-2008) were interviewed. To analyze data discourse analysis was used. Results: Discourse analysis led to establishing these main ideas: treat unequal people unequally according to their needs; compensated equity and inequalities; equity and benefits maximization; equity and social merit; equity and rights. Conclusion: Research results evidence the existence of a diversity of interpretations, in bioethicists researched, on equity in health system, reinforcing the notion that it is difficult, in contemporary world, to deliberate upon what would be a just and equanimous system.