ABSTRACT
The Brazilian healthcare system is controlled by the Ministry of Health that holds responsibility for public health policy and oversight of the public and private health provider network, including broad powers of control of healthcare and the drug industry. More than 77% of Brazilians receive healthcare coverage through the Sistema Unico de Saude, since the low ability to pay and a big informal labor market make it hard for most to access the private system. The Brazilian government has prioritized access to public healthcare, but coverage remains relatively poor due to limited financial resources. United Health Group acquired a 90% stake in the largest Brazilian health insurer and hospital operator Amil in late 2012 in a move to invest in the rapidly increasing healthcare needs of the Brazilian middle class. The Brazilian government has pursued establishing public/private partnership agreements for the manufacture of biotechnology drugs and other health technologies.
