THE USE OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY PRACTICES BY PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PHYSICIANS: BETWEEN THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF POLICY AND THE CHALLENGES OF CLINICAL PRACTICE

Abstract

Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (ICPs) represent an important strategy for promoting comprehensive care within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), especially in the context of Primary Health Care (PHC). However, despite the strengthening of the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices and the growing scientific recognition of their benefits, their incorporation into medical practice remains limited. This article aimed to critically reflect on the use of ICPs by physicians in Primary Health Care, discussing the factors that influence their inclusion in clinical practice and their contributions to strengthening comprehensive care. This is a reflective article, based on a critical analysis of contemporary scientific literature on medical training, implementation of ICPs, organization of health services, and care practices in PHC. The reflection was organized into two thematic axes: the persistence of the biomedical model as an obstacle to the incorporation of ICPs and the potential of these practices to transform medical practice through an expanded and person-centered clinical approach. It was observed that the reduced use of Integrative and Complementary Practices (PICS) by physicians is related to insufficient academic training, lack of knowledge of public policy, structural limitations of services, and the predominance of a disease-centered care paradigm. Conversely, evidence suggests that PICS favor the strengthening of the therapeutic bond, self-care, health promotion, and comprehensive care. It is concluded that the consolidation of PICS in medical practice requires transformations in professional training, continuing education, and the organizational culture of services, contributing to more humanized, comprehensive care consistent with the principles of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS).