The document initially includes different definitions of health systems, equity and access to health services, universal health coverage, among others. The Chilean health system is segmented and consists of a mixed system of financing, insurance and service provision. The public sector insures 78% of the population, the private sector covers 14.4% and the Armed Forces and the Armed Forces cover the remaining 3%.
In 2017, total healthcare spending accounted for 8.1% of Gross Domestic Product. The health sector is financed mainly by general taxes levied by the State and mandatory contributions from workers, equivalent to 7% of their salaries. Both sources finance 60.8% of health spending, while out-of-pocket spending financed 32.6% of such spending. Finally, there are the companies’ contributions for occupational accident and occupational disease insurance.
