Author:

• Cristiani Vieira Machado - Machado, C. V. - Rio de Janeiro, RJ - <cristiani@ensp.fiocruz.br, cristiani.vieira.machado@gmail.com>
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9577-0301

Abstract:

In the last decades, several Latin American health systems have undergone reforms. This paper analyzes health policies in Argentina, Brazil and Mexico1990 to 2014. It explores the reform strategies, explanatory factors and effects over the configuration of each health system. The analytical framework was based on the historical-comparative approach and considered: political and economic context; health reform agendas, processes and strategies; changes in health system´s configuration in what regards social stratification and decommodification. Research methods involved literature review, document and data analysis and interviews. In the period, Argentina maintained an employment-based and fragmented healthcare system, expanded specific public programs and private health plans. Brazil created a public and universal health system, which coexists with a dynamic and growing private sector. Mexico maintained the employment-based health care and created a popular health insurance. Although the reform influences and strategies varied between the countries, social stratification and commodification persisted in the three health systems, under different arrangements. The transformation of these characteristics is essential to build universal health systems in Latin America.

Keywords:

Health Policies; Health Systems; Latin America; Public-private relations in health.

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