Innovation in healthcare business methods: A comparative patent analysis

Intellectual property (IP) systems in contemporary knowledge-based societies foster sustainable economic development and incentivize innovative enterprises. The landscape of business method patents based on computer-related inventions in Brazil's health sector is examined, focusing on innovations intertwined with information and communication technology (ICT) for administrative, commercial, financial, and managerial functions. Using Questel's Orbit Intelligence software, 181 Brazilian patent families were mapped and analyzed and compared to 6609 global patents to elucidate Brazil's position in the global innovation ecosystem. Findings reveal that Brazil accounts for only 2.7 % of global patents (15th global position) in this domain, underscoring significant untapped potential. Philips and CareFusion are identified as leading innovators, highlighting a disparity between the innovation capacities of global and Brazilian entities. The research exposes a need for collaboration and knowledge flow among Brazilian assignees, contrasting with the dense network of global interactions. The technological domains predominantly include ICT methods for management, reflecting an emphasis on optimizing healthcare operations. The study concludes with strategic recommendations to enhance Brazil's regulatory framework, bolster university-industry collaborations, and leverage global innovations to improve healthcare delivery and national competitiveness. These insights contribute to understanding the dynamics of technological innovation in emerging economies and propose pathways to transition Brazil from a technology consumer to a global innovator.