Analysis of the formulation process of the Mais Médicos Program

Abstract

This paper analyzes the formulation process of the Mais Médicos Program (PMM), to answer the following questions: (1) Why was the PMM formulated with its specific format and (2) Which actors, ideas and institutions influenced its formulation process. To do so, it examines the solutions proposed by the public debate to the medical supply and training insufficiencies, from the 1960s until the PMM creation. Based on process tracing, the study analyzed bibliographic, documentary and interview data. Studies on political process and the Theory of Gradual Institutional Change formed its theoretical background. Results showed that the Program design was significantly modified by the Government from its proposal until its approval. The favorable scenario, characterized by popular and political approval of the Program, together with the strategic action of its formulators, allowed to expand its scope, approaching the principles defended by the Policy Community of the Health Movement. Finally, its format was influenced by previously implemented policies and ideas defended by its main formulators.