Indigenous peoples and Health Information Systems in Argentina: The ethnic variable in six provinces in Argentina

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The inclusion of the ethnic variable in the health surveillance system is a recent topic in the Argentine health system in spite of the big socioepidemiological gaps that characterize the health situation of indigenous groups, especially in the north of the country. OBJECTIVES: To identify the availability and quality of ethnic health information sources in the provinces of Salta, Formosa, Chaco, Misiones, Jujuy and Neuquén. Besides, the study sought to analyze the key stakeholders´ perception about the feasibility and relevance of the variable incorporation in those records. METHODS: exploratory study. A qualitative methodology was used based on in-depth interviews conducted with key informants (provincial health officials, health effectors and indigenous leaders)in urban and rural contexts. RESULTS: Only the province of Formosa has formally integrated the ethnic variable in health records; however, information is not available. In an informal and individual way, information is gathered at the local level in Jujuy, Salta and Misiones mainly by community health agents. The variable inclusion was accepted by all the indigenous leaders and provincial indigenous health programs. There was no agreement among other officers. CONCLUSIONS: The gradual inclusion of the ethnic variable is suggested. This process must involve indigenous communities and organizations representatives and use the self-identification concept as recommended internationally.