The Effectiveness of Public Policies in Promoting Responsible Business Conduct: Rates of Elective Cesarean Sections versus Vaginal Deliveries in Public and Private Healthcare Networks in Brazil

Abstract

This article analyses the effectiveness of public policies in promoting responsible business conduct in terms of the high rates of elective cesarean sections in Brazil. This frequency runs counter to the recommendations of the World Health Organization, which states that cesarean sections should only be performed when clinically necessary when the health of the mother or child is at risk. The government, which is responsible for protecting fundamental rights that include health, must ensure that public and private health care networks act in the best interest of its citizens. This study involves data collection, bibliographic research, and a review of the legislation, and concludes that although Brazil has numerous public policies to encourage vaginal delivery, these initiatives disregard the determining factors that lead to elective cesarean births.