Integrative and Complementary Practices in basic health care: a bibliometric study of Brazilian production

Abstract

Integrative and Complementary Practices (PICs) are a reality in the Unified Health System (SUS) since 2006, by the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC). This study aimed to know the main characteristics of scientific production on PICs in Basic Health Care developed in Brazil during the first 10 years of PNPIC implementation, and point out the main results observed in these studies, as well. The method was supported by bibliometrics. As a result, the researches related to the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC) and publications of the journal “Ciência e Saúde Coletiva” stand out. The largest number of articles was published between 2011 and 2014. Most of them intended to analyze the context of implementation and use of PICs. Phytotherapy, homeopathy and acupuncture were the most mentioned. As a result of the use of PICs, it was founded: reduction of medicalization; empowerment and accountability of users; reducing the frequency of common mental disorders; low cost; absence of side effects; health promotion. Among the main problems are: mental disorders; social relationships; psychosomatic; insomnia; chronic diseases. The potentialities and weaknesses cited in the studies deserve more attention from academia and managers of the health area.