Perception of immigrants: free consent and access to health services

Abstract

This study aims to identify the perception of Cuban immigrants about the free and informed consent form and access to dental and medical care. This is a cross-sectional descriptive survey conducted with a sample of immigrants from a medium-sized municipality in the state of São Paulo. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire addressing the form and the access to dental and medical care both in Brazil and in their country of origin, as well as sociodemographic aspects. The results indicate that immigrants have access to medical and dental care, but little knowledge about the consent form during treatment. Considering that a well-designed consent term and patient knowledge promotes the successful performance of procedures, physicians and dentists need to adopt measures for a safe professional practice.

Informed consent; Personal autonomy; Bioethics; Right to health; Emigrants and immigrants