Health care for border residents: Construction of a reality based on ethical values

Abstract

This study sought to explain how interactions between health actors on the triple border of Brazil, Colombia and Peru influence the provision of care to border residents in that location. As a method, a single, explanatory, integrated, qualitative case was carried out in a municipality on the triple border of Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. The sources of evidence used were: documentary data, interviews, and direct observations. MaxQDA12® software was used to organize the data and for analysis, theoretical propositions, and construction of explanations as an analytical strategy and analysis technique. The data collected showed that financial issues are the main challenge in offering healthcare to border residents. However, the healthcare offered to this population is based on ethical values, such as egalitarianism; respect for individual freedom and human life; solidarity and altruism. In this context, healthcare for border residents in the studied region is recognized by local health managers as a right.