Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify the main migration patterns of medical professionals according to the Brazilian Federative Units (UFs), based on Demographic Census data of the years 2000 and 2010. Migration matrices for each of point in time are produced, and net migration rates for each UF are estimated. The results show that despite the increase in the number of physicians out flowing to other UFs during the study period, there are still significant differences between Regions and UFs related to the allocation of physicians. The Southeast Region, particularly, São Paulo, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro are the main UFs providing these professionals to other states and are also the main attractors. Amapá shows opposite reality: it is the UF that receives the lowest inflow of physicians. Results suggest that the sort of knowledge presented about spatial movements of physicians may contribute to the design of strategic plans that allow each Federation Units of Brazil count on a minimum quantity of physicians. It is also am important tool for monitoring in-outflows of highly qualified and specific labor force as the physicians are.