Primary health care and Latin-American territories marked by violence

Abstract

The present article aims at discussing the singularities of primary health care (PHC) in contexts where violence, strongly supported by guns, is routinely, chronically, and systemically present, and to gauge the capacity of PHC as empowerment channel for communities where armed violence is an expressive vulnerability. Based on the Declaration of Alma-Ata and on the PHC principles described by Barbara Starfield, and focusing on community participation and social determinants of health, the discussion departs from the realities observed in Latin America and the commitment to access and universal coverage set forth in the third Sustainable Development Goal. The qualitative and quantitative characterization of armed violence and its consequences must be qualified using an intersectoral approach with heavy community participation in search of coherent and significant responses. The protection and safety of health care workers must be ensured to guarantee the continuous provision of health care services in contexts of violence.