Graduation in collective health as a political strategy for the re-existence and defense of the sus: trajectory, expectations and challenges for the future

Abstract

The present study aims to discuss graduation in Collective Health as a political strategy for the re-existence and defense of the SUS. This is an essay that sought to reflect on: the trajectory of these courses in Brazil; the challenges and potential of training graduate Collective health professionals; the prospects for insertion in the world of work; and the social and health political role that has been played by these professionals. The idea of creating these courses comes within the framework of discussions on the Brazilian Health Reform that pointed to the need to reorient training, capable of responding to the complex health demands and strengthening of the SUS. The construction of the proposal, however, has been plagued by tensions since its inception. The project, therefore, required curricular designs capable of materializing the ideals of its conception, later explained in the National Curricular Guidelines. As a movement, the discussion stands out about the extent to which the courses and pedagogical projects have responded to the original desires and how the three major areas participate in this training. Finally, as a process, after more than 15 years of implementing the courses, important issues such as improving training, insertion in the world of work and regulation of the profession are highlighted.