During the novel coronavirus pandemic, the Ministry of Health has paid up to 185% higher in the purchase of products for the federal, state and municipal public health networks. The conclusion stems from the analysis of 34 emergency contracts signed by the ministry.
The biggest difference found was in slippers designed for hospitals, made of fabric and used to prevent contamination.
The agency paid R$ 0.07 per pair, in a batch of 100 thousand items on March 2. Less than a month later, he signed a new contract at R$ 0.20.
Gel alcohol, which rose by up to 300% at retail in some states, according to Procons, (consumer protection entities), is also coming out more expensive for the government. At the beginning of the crisis, the 500 ml bottle was sold for R$ 3.91; in early April, the value jumped to R$ 6.68, an increase of 70%.
The Ministry of Health attributed the variations to the dollar, which has been rising, and to the increase in demand.
The ministry also states that the purchase of inputs, equipment and the like is one of the biggest challenges. Aprons, gloves, caps and masks are the most difficult products to find.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon