Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage

The 1988 constitution crystallized the movement toward democratization. One of the primary tenets of this new constitution was the de jure establishment of free, universal healthcare. Such a goal would be pursued through the Unified Health System (SUS), a newly established administrative body responsible for the stewardship of both the public and private health systems. The primary purpose of the SUS was to decentralize health policy down to the level of the state and municipality, with municipalities responsible for managing and providing primary health care services. States would assist in setting policy goals and provide technical and financial assistance. Under the new legislation, municipal health secretariats were the primary entities responsible for planning, managing, and administering most aspects of health care.