THE STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF STRENGTHENING THE HEALTH ECONOMIC-INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX (CEIS) FOR BROAD ACCESS TO MEDICINES IN THE UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM

Abstract

The 1988 Federal Constitution legitimized health as a right for all and a duty of the State, establishing the Unified Health System (SUS) as one of the largest public health systems in the world, responsible for ensuring universal and free access to health care for the Brazilian population. Pharmaceutical Assistance, an integral part of SUS, was established by the National Policy on Pharmaceutical Assistance (PNAF), aiming to ensure access to and the rational use of medicines. The Health Economic-Industrial Complex (CEIS) is a strategic part of SUS's self-sufficiency, serving as the productive base for the production of health inputs and technologies. This study aims to discuss the importance of structuring CEIS in the Brazilian context, examining its impact on the economy, public health, and technological development. The methodology combines a literature review and analysis of statistical data from official sources, highlighting the relevance of CEIS to the autonomy of SUS and the challenges faced, such as import dependency and health judicialization. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of the Brazilian health system, underscoring the need to strengthen CEIS to safeguard the existence of SUS. In light of the above, the structuring of a robust CEIS is essential for improving population care and mitigating inequalities in access to medicines in Brazil.