Social participation in health: an analysis of the Brazilian Participatory Multi-Year Plan 2024-2027

Abstract

Objective: to understand and analyze the process of social participation in health in the formulation of the 2024-2027 Participatory Multi-Year Plan, with an emphasis on the amount of participation and the effective incorporation of proposals in the final report of the Multi-Year Plan. Methodology: this was a documentary study that used the database of the Federal Government's “Brasil Participativo” platform. Results: significant discrepancies were found in the official documents regarding the number of proposals actually analyzed and their degree of incorporation into the Participatory Multi-Year Plan bill. While one document indicates that 528 proposals were submitted for analysis in the area of health, another document presents 508 as considered. This discrepancy makes it difficult to track and understand the decision-making process. The use of the digital mechanism of the ‘Brasil Participativo’ platform presented notable benefits, such as expanding the reach and democratizing access to participation, overcoming geographical and time barriers. However, challenges remain, especially with regard to equity in digital access and ensuring that the most relevant contributions to public health are prioritized and incorporated in a substantial way. Conclusion: the importance of improving social participation mechanisms, ensuring more effective use of the proposals chosen by the population. A multidisciplinary approach, involving legislative adjustments and the promotion of new practices in health system management, is essential to ensure the effectiveness of equitable public policies. This integration is essential for the popular choice to be truly successful and result in tangible improvements in public health.

Submitted: 04/23/25| Revision: 09/17/25| Approved: 09/18/25