Challenges and experiences of indigenous health agents in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the challenges and lived experiences of Indigenous health agents in their daily practice in the municipality of Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. This qualitative study was conducted with 25 agents through a focus group. Data analysis was carried out using textual analysis software, allowing the identification of lexical classes and the relationships among terms through similarity analysis, organized into thematic axes. The results indicated that the agents work across multiple areas, including disease prevention, maternal and child follow-up, vaccination, and health education, often experiencing role accumulation and work overload. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they stood out for their leading role in frontline actions and immunization campaigns, despite logistical challenges and difficulties with vaccine uptake. The word “speaking” emerged as central in the analysis, highlighting the importance of community guidance. An association was observed among the terms “area,” “health,” “mother,” and “child,” reinforcing the role of these professionals in child care and intercultural mediation. It is concluded that institutional recognition and the strengthening of policies aimed at Indigenous health agents  re essential to ensure effective and culturally sensitive primary health care.