Unveiling Conceptions of Development and Health Status in Diaguita Children within the Framework of Primary Health Care

Abstract

Introduction: Monitoring child growth and development is a duty that responds to legal, ethical, and public health imperatives, and is fundamental to biopsychosocial well-being and human potential. Despite advances in health policies, indigenous children in Chile exhibit worse health indicators than the general population. Objective: To understand the meaning of development and health for Diaguita children cared for within the framework of PHC. Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological design was used, involving secondary analysis of 11 interviews with 8 Diaguita mothers and 3 health professionals who serve this population. Results: the analysis revealed 3 main categories: I. Perceptions about traditional aspects of child development and well-being; II. Diaguita cultural and community heritage; and III. Experiences with health systems. Conclusion: Diaguita families in Atacama understand child development from a holistic perspective, closely linked to their worldview and ancestral heritage, which is shared within their families and communities. Their experience with healthcare impacts their assessment and adherence to primary care, as they perceive a lack of interest in their culture and discriminatory treatment. Healthcare personnel also recognize a lack of tools to provide culturally relevant care.