Management of medical equipment in the Brazilian public health system (SUS), historical situation and the context of the pandemic COVID-19: a cut for lung ventilators.

Purpose: The main objective of this paper is to analyze the Brazilian Ministry of Health (MoH) efforts in the management of medical equipment, with a specific approach for lung ventilators in the pandemic scenario of COVID-19.

Methods: The methodology included a review of the normative framework and literature on technological management and research on the database of the Ministry of Health.

Results: As a promoter for acquiring medical equipment, the MoH role is highlighted and added to this competence; its function as the coordinator of the National Policy on Health Technology Management (PNGTS).