Public health systems in Brazil and Portugal: challenges and opportunities in health promotion and access

Abstract

The Brazilian and Portuguese healthcare systems differ in structure, financing and accessibility. They are similar in terms of decentralization of services, coexistence of public and private health providers and universality and comprehensiveness. The Unified Health System is financed by the federal, state, and municipal governments and is free for everyone. Given the territorial size and economic and social inequality in Brazil, the quality of care can vary greatly, with disparities in access to healthcare between its regions. In Portugal, the National Health Service offers universal and largely free tax-funded coverage and provides comprehensive care, but long waiting times can be a problem. Both systems face challenges such as an aging population and budget constraints. This study pointed out that in addition to appropriate financing and the reorganization of models, academic knowledge can assist in improvement actions and public policies.