Inequalities and regional planning: situational diagnosis of the SUS Digital Program

Abstract This article presents the theoretical foundations, methodological approach, and key findings of the situational diagnosis conducted by the Department of Information and Digital Health, part of the Ministry of Health, covering the country’s 120 health macroregions within the context of the SUS Digital Program. The methodology included the application of an electronic questionnaire with 32 objective and discursive/open-ended questions, organized into four sections: health networks and service delivery, workforce, training and continuing education, and macro-regional priorities and digital transformation in health. The situational diagnosis aimed to support the development of Digital Health Transformation Action Plans, based on the organization of the Health Care Network (HCN). Analysis of the questionnaire responses revealed relevant inequalities across territories, directly impacting the organization of the Networks. These asymmetries directly affect the organization of HCNs. It is argued that regionalized planning and the strengthening of digital health - especially in areas of greater vulnerability - constitute effective strategies to reduce regional health inequalities.