Health and human development: nursing and the human right to health in Brazil

Rev Gaucha Enferm. 2008 Mar;29(1):137-42.

Abstract

This article aims at understanding the influence of the right to health legal framework to Brazilian Nursing. To achieve this purpose the historical evolution of the right to development is described and the concept of right to health is introduced. Then, the right to health in Brazil and Nursing actions to guarantee this right in their daily practice is discussed. In Brazil, health is a right of all and a duty of the State. However, there is a great inequality in the distribution of health services among regions, rural and urban areas, the rich and the poor. Nursing professionals face several challenges in their practice to provide the care as stated by the laws. They play an important role as transformation agents, helping the community to acquire a sense of collective identity regarding their human rights and right to health.

MeSH terms

  • Brazil
  • Health*
  • Human Development*
  • Human Rights*
  • Humans
  • Nurse's Role*