The advantages of integrative and complementary health practices as a care strategy: a literature review

Abstract

This text analyzes the benefits of Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (PICS) as a method of care in Primary Health Care (PHC). The introduction addresses the relevance of Integrative and Complementary Practices in the SUS and the obstacles encountered in their implementation. The methodology is based on the evaluation of five recent studies, using qualitative methodology and thematic content analysis to recognize the advantages of these practices, such as health promotion, cost reduction and improved adherence to treatment. The findings and debate highlight the main advantages, such as improved patient well-being and symptom reduction, as well as the obstacles related to professional training and institutional resistance. Finally, the text highlights the importance of more research and training to overcome the obstacles in the implementation of PICS. The practices can be an economical option for the treatment of chronic diseases and improve quality of life, however, they encounter opposition from some professionals and administrators. Incorporating Integrative and Complementary Practices into academic curricula and intensifying in-service training are essential to ensure that these practices are incorporated more efficiently into Brazil’s health system. The analysis indicates that, despite the challenges, Integrative and Complementary Practices (PICS) have great potential to revolutionize the care model in the SUS.