Comments for the analysis of equity in health systems

Abstract

In the light of the recent health reforms in the Latin American region, the object of this document is to examine health systems with an equity perspective. Considering the distinctiveness of the health markets (uncertain demand and possible catastrophic effects, market mismatches, and demographic, epidemiologic and technological transition) the document examines the financing of health, integration of the sanitary networks (segmentation and fragmentation of markets), resource allocation and payment mechanisms, and health advancement and prevention, which the author considers significant to identify the “degree” of equity in the health systems and to guide the respective public policies.