Abstract
Abstract
Background
Digital systems are central to regulating access to care in Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS), but fragmented data can hinder coordination.
Objective
This study examines the database structure of SUSfácilMG and identifies modernization priorities, using CORE Saúde MG as a comparative reference.
Methods
We assessed metadata from 1,586 SUSfácilMG tables, focusing on naming patterns, relationships, and repeated attributes. We then compared architectural features described for CORE Saúde MG.
Results
Approximately 40% of the assessed tables repeated descriptive attributes, including patient identifiers, suggesting substantial duplication. Metadata alone cannot establish operational failures, security incidents, or effects on care.
Conclusion
A phased review of data models, interfaces, and governance is warranted. Standardized exchange, referential integrity, and controlled access should be evaluated alongside service continuity and data quality.
Author summary
Brazil’s public health system relies on digital platforms to organize access to specialized care. In Minas Gerais, SUSfácilMG has supported this process for many years, accumulating adaptations that are reflected in the database structure.
We examined the metadata of 1,586 SUSfácilMG tables, focusing on naming patterns, apparent relationships, and recurring descriptive attributes. Approxim 40% of the tables contained recurring patient-related attributes, indicating struc complexity that may complicate data maintenance and system integration.
Comparison with published descriptions of CORE Saúde MG highlighted opportunities for phased modernization based on shared data structures, interoperability, and governance. Because the analysis was limited to metadata, findings identified structural opportunities rather than evidence of data inconsist security incidents, or effects on patient care.