Perspectives and challenges for the field of medical rationality and integrative and complementary health practices

Abstract

This essay analyzes medical rationality and integrative and complementary health practices (MR/ICHP) in the context of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS), drawing on the work of Abrasco's MR/ICHP Thematic Group. It discusses traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) and inconsistencies and limitations in the institutionalization of ICHP, especially in primary health care. We advocate for the expansion of professional training and ICHP research and the strengthening of policies addressing traditional medicines (greater recognition of indigenous, African, and popular practices). We also highlight the challenges and opportunities of this agenda from a critical intercultural perspective, based on the principles of comprehensiveness, good living and epistemic justice. TCIM is viewed as a strategic path for addressing overmedicalization in health care and the dispute over the direction to be taken of the SUS care model.