Ideas, images and beliefs in the production of public policies: the case of the More Doctors Program

This paper analyses the perspectives of the candidates for elective positions at the federal and state levels during the election process in 2014, regarding the More Doctors Program, presented by print and online commercial media vehicles, identifying ideas, images and beliefs related to this public policy. Mapping of the perspectives of the candidates aimed to identify senses and meanings of the program and outline the description of problems and solutions regarding the provision of health professionals under the Brazilian National Health System. The data showed that the subject of emergency provision of physicians went beyond the subsystem or field of health care and became part of the political agenda. Both candidates who supported the program and those who criticized it publicly stated that it was a necessary program and a strategy to which they would be committed. The program has greatly expanded the visibility of the health sector agenda.