Towards Universal Health Coverage in Brazil: analysis of programs to expand the supply of doctors in primary health care

Abstract

# Background The inequality in the access to health services in Brazil is one of the consequences of the poor distribution of doctors throughout the country. This is observed by the scarcity of these professionals working in primary health care (PHC) in the Brazilian health care system (SUS), particularly in rural and poor suburban areas. This paper analyzes the policies of the Brazilian federal government aiming to increase access to health services by encouraging physicians to work in PHC. The study examines the policies’ effects regarding the availability of doctors, and the participation of Brazilian doctors on the *“Mais Médicos”* Project, leading to recommendations for future strategies. # Methods The research combined a scope review, based on documents produced by the federal government, and analysis of secondary data obtained from the Ministry of Health, as well as from official websites of the Brazilian government. # Results The results indicate advances in innovative strategies to expand the number of physicians, increasing the availability of these professionals, and PHC coverage. However, it is still necessary to fight the scarcity of professionals and fill healthcare positions primarily in municipalities far from urban centers, poor and suburban areas, and Special Indigenous Sanitary Districts. # Conclusions Improving health coverage in Brazil through strengthening primary health care will require further efforts to overcome the challenge of attracting and retaining doctors to work in disadvantaged areas, increasing the availability and accessibility of health workers. In addition, new policies need to emphasize the participation of other health professionals such as nurses, auxiliary nurses, and community health agents, as well as incorporate new technology able to reduce distances between health professionals and users of the Brazilian health care system.