COVID-19 pandemic and the judicialization of health care: an explanatory case study

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.4584.3354

Keywords:

Health’s Judicialization, Right to Health, Coronavirus, Unified Health System, Public Policy, Nursing

Abstract

Objective to identify the reasons that led to the judicialization of health care in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic; describe the outcomes of lawsuits concerning health care involving the COVID-19; and analyze the cases of health care judicialization intended to ensure the population’s right to health. Method qualitative, explanatory case study. Data were collected from the websites of the Federal Prosecution Service, Regional Labor Court (1st Region), and the Court of Justice of Rio de Janeiro. The inclusion criterion was public civil actions that concerned health care and situations involving the COVID-19 pandemic. Two categories emerged from data analysis. Results four cases were identified. Conclusion the judicialization of health care consists of obtaining assets and rights in the courts. These assets and rights are essential to ensure the health of citizens but have been denied in various instances, often due to the omission of the executive and legislative powers. Analyzing the judicialization of health care amidst the pandemic brings focus and highlights the importance of giving voice and visibility to the enormous contingent of the Brazilian society unassisted by public authorities.

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Published

2020-02-23

Issue

Section

Original Articles

How to Cite

COVID-19 pandemic and the judicialization of health care: an explanatory case study. (2020). Revista Latino-Americana De Enfermagem, 28, e3354. https://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.4584.3354