Commission approves distribution of disposable diapers by the SUS to the elderly and people with disabilities – News

04/25/2024 – 17:40

The Committee for the Defense of the Rights of the Elderly of the Chamber of Deputies approved a proposal that guarantees the distribution of disposable diapers, within the scope of the Unified Health System (SUS), to the elderly, people with disabilities and other patients who have lost control of their health. their physiological functions.

Under the proposal, diapers will be classified as products of health interest, along with orthoses, prosthetics, collection bags and medical equipment.

The quantity of disposable diapers per beneficiary will be defined according to individual needs and will depend on a prescription, report or medical certificate indicating the need for use.

The approved text is the substitute of the Commission for the Defense of the Rights of People with Disabilities to Bill 2678/23, by deputy Paulo Litro (PSD-PR), and attached (PLs 3086/23, 3188/23, 3603/23 and 4473/23).

The opinion of the rapporteur on the Committee for the Defense of the Rights of Elderly Persons, deputy Ossesio Silva (Republicanos-PE), was for the approval of this substitute.

Existing program
The rapporteur highlights that the Popular Pharmacy Program established guidelines for the distribution of disposable diapers for elderly or disabled people, and sanitary pads for people benefiting from the Program for the Protection and Promotion of Menstrual Health and Dignity.

“Until recently, people with disabilities were not included in the Popular Pharmacy Program,” noted the deputy. “It was necessary for the Judiciary to intervene to make it clear that the denial of this right violated human dignity and constitutional rights to health care,” said Ossesio Silva.

“By establishing this right through law, we are creating a solid and lasting framework that consistently protects these vulnerable groups, regardless of government or policy changes,” he assessed.

Next steps
The proposal will be analyzed in conclusive character by the Health commissions; Finance and Taxation; and Constitution and Justice and Citizenship.

Find out more about the processing of bills

Report – Lara Haje
Editing – Pierre Triboli