IEPS study: Most 2026 presidential health proposals already exist in SUS

A study by the Institute for Health Policy Studies (IEPS) reveals that 56% of the health proposals presented by the six leading presidential candidates for the 2026 elections already exist, in whole or in part, within the current structures or programs of the Unified Health System (SUS).

The analysis indicates that many candidates propose expanding, accelerating, or modifying existing policies, such as digital health services and priority-based queue management. However, some government plans fail to clarify the practical changes intended compared to current offerings.

A significant concern raised by the report is the lack of financial planning. Approximately 95% of the analyzed proposals would require increased funding for the SUS but do not specify a source of revenue. Furthermore, 47% of the proposals lack detail on how they would be executed. The study also notes that 83% of the plans would require coordination with state and municipal governments, highlighting the tripartite management nature of the SUS. Additionally, the report points out that the plans largely ignore emerging challenges such as the health impacts of online betting and the effects of climate change.