HEALTH INDICATORS AND THEIR IMPORTANCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW OF HEALTH POLICIES Lissa Caron Sarraf e Silva, Renato Braz Mehanna Khamis

Abstract

Indicators are essential medium parameters for measuring the effectiveness and efficiency of public policies at a given time. The present article aims to demonstrate a descriptive study of applicable norms and laws related to health and indicators in Brazil, the elementary concepts to consider for a correct development of indicators, the evolution and relevant changes in the last years, also the verification of advances and the necessity of improvements from the various existing databases and indicators, aiming at the progress of public policies effectively. It demonstrates the need to develop a single matrix of indicators, as a way to measure results and satisfy both health policy goals and other areas, reflecting progress in a broad way. On the other hand, it recognizes as a hindrance the complexity inherent to the health area, being this highly relevant factor that makes it difficult to collect and interpret data.