This article discusses the possibilities and limits of proposals for the humanization of healthcare. The theoretical references utilized are the concept of "reification" as a causative explanation for the process of man's estrangement from his world and the concept of "radical needs" as a possible way of overcoming traditionalist humanism to achieve transformative practice. From these notions, an understanding of the difficulties and contributions of the movement towards humanization is sought, highlighting the interdependence and limits of sectoral changes within healthcare in light of society's concepts and general values. The article concludes by suggesting that guidelines for humanization/satisfaction, in bringing together the critique of society's general questions concerning the daily difficulties of healthcare services, may keep the comprehensiveness of the right to healthcare open beyond the limits of current social relations, thereby favoring a stance that opposes the restrictive trend of minimal public policies towards healthcare.
Delivery of Health Care; Public Policy; Right to Health