HEALTHCARE PRACTICES FOR INDIGENOUS CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGES AND ADDRESSING THE DIVERGENCE BETWEEN POLICY AND REALITY

Abstract

This study delves into the challenges hindering the implementation of indigenous health as a State responsibility in Brazil, and explores their ramifications, with a specific focus on the well-being of indigenous children. The research methodology employed a comprehensive approach, involving data collection and analysis through statistical, historical, and legal research, drawing insights from expert texts and official agency data. References from decisions by the Brazilian Supreme Court and legislative frameworks were duly considered. Consequently, this investigation establishes a correlation between the humanitarian crisis faced by indigenous peoples in Brazil, encompassing their physical and mental integrity (comprehensive health), and the structural deficiencies within official endeavors to establish the constitutional indigenous health system. Another key factor contributing to the system's inefficiency is the lack of greater qualification among state agents and their understanding of indigenous traditions and cosmologies, which impact the provision of appropriate health and well-being services. Occurrences like the tragic genocide of the Yanomami people stem not from sporadic and unforeseen events, but rather from systematic actions and omissions that violate the fundamental human rights of indigenous nations. Compounding this situation are factors such as corruption, political interference from anti-indigenous factions, inadequate representation of indigenous voices in the formulation and implementation of indigenous health policies, and ongoing violations of indigenous lands - a fundamental cornerstone of their existence. Each of these elements further undermines the efficacy of the analyzed health system. Finally, this research aims to demonstrate the adverse effects of government (in)articulation on the health care of indigenous children and adolescents within their communities during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, while also highlighting the initial steps taken by the current federal government to address and reverse these challenges.