O desenvolvimento sustentável e sua interface com a saúde: uma análise sobre a convergência entre os serviços de saúde em Juiz de Fora e os Objetivos do desenvolvimento sustentável traçados pela Organização das Nações Unidas

Abstract

The theoretical debate on sustainable development gained significant prominence in 1972 at the Stockholm Conference. Ever since, many political events have occurerd, involving different countries which it has been discussing the environmental damage caused by the accelerated process of industrialization, as well as the importance of sustainable development for improving the quality of life on Earth. In 2015, the United Nations (UN) established the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), proposing a global agenda to guide countries in implementing public policies by 2030. This research focuses on one of these 17 goals, specifically SDG 3, which pertains to health and well-being, with the primary aim of ensuring access to quality health care and promoting well-being for all. It is emphasized that health has an enduring value, serving as a fundamental factor for work and quality of life. Health organizations, such as hospitals and primary care units, are crucial for providing the population with access to information and health care services. This dissertation aims to assess the perception of health professionals regarding the importance of the SDGs for the sustainability of these organizations and for the health of the population in Juiz de Fora. Thus, a descriptive qualitative research was conducted through interviews with health professionals working in these organizations. The content analysis of the interviews revealed that respondents consider the SDGs important for the sustainability of health organizations and for the health of the population, particularly the SDGs related to improving education, eradicating hunger and poverty, and enhancing basic sanitation and clean water. Data analysis indicates similarities between health organizations and the literature on the subject concerning sustainable practices, such as the proper disposal of medications and health waste. Conversely, other aspects reveal discrepancies, such as the environmental awareness of health professionals, which, according to the literature, is a solution for improving hospital sustainability but is not observed in practice.