Difficulties in accessing the right to health for African immigrants in the far south of the state of Santa Catarina: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: Access to health actions and services in Brazil must be universal, however, there are numerous barriers that prevent this right, especially for immigrants, resulting in differences in the care received and, consequently, in worse health outcomes compared to other populations. Objective: to identify the difficulties of black Angolan immigrants when accessing the Unified Health System (SUS). Methods: The research had a qualitative approach, with an exploratory and descriptive nature. The study location was the municipality of Criciúma/SC and included 45 black Angolan immigrant students. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires via Google Forms and face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The analytical process was carried out through thematic content analysis. The ethical aspects were respected and approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: The results were structured into two categories and seven codes that indicated that the difficulties of black immigrant people in accessing the SUS, centering on difficulties in accessing health, represented due to: delay in service, difficulty in scheduling an appointment, failure to meet schedules; and, in manifestation of discriminatory practices such as: racism, xenophobia, different treatment, lack of interest. Conclusion: the barriers to accessing healthcare for black immigrant people are similar to those faced by Brazilians. But evidence of discrimination highlights the urgency of redressing the way we provide comprehensive care to this population.