Health

Health

Health care is very poor in Brazil compared to that of North America. There is on average 1 doctor to every 681 inhabitants. Less than 20 % of hospitals are state run and private care is very expensive. In major city centers there are private clinics and facilities one may go to if ill, however, in the rural areas there are not many facilities to access. The rich usually are able to attend private health clinics for medication and other services. Many of the rural poor do not have the money to do that. Infant mortality, leprosy, parasitic skin infections and malaria are common problems for many poor people. In the rural areas there are some small clinics, however, they are understaffed or in very bad condition. Stomach and gastrointestinal ailments are common due to the lack of sanitation. Many of the rural poor suffer from these illnesses.

Student Activity:

Write a proposal to the Brazilian government of measures they can take to improve the health care services of their country. Make sure your proposal has valid reasons and facts. Make your argument convincing. You may want to research and find statistics and other information related to health care that would support your reasoning. Your essay need only be five paragraphs.

Click here for an essay outline.