Supplementary Health and its role within the Unified Health System: an integrative review

Abstract

The Federal Constitution of 1988 establishes health as a right for all and a duty of the State, guaranteeing universal and equal access to health services. The Brazilian health system is composed of the public sector, represented by the Unified Health System (SUS), and the private sector, represented by Supplementary Health. This study aimed to analyze the role of Supplementary Health in complementing comprehensive health care in Brazil. An integrative literature review was carried out, with a selection of 12 articles. The analysis revealed that the integration between Supplementary Health and SUS is challenging and raises doubts about the fulfillment of the complementary role of the private sector. Aspects related to accessibility, management and financing of the SUS were identified, highlighting the need for effective regulation of the private sector. There is a need for greater alignment between Supplementary Health companies and State guidelines to strengthen comprehensive health care. The integration between the public and private sectors must be better regulated to ensure a complementary and effective performance in the Brazilian health system.