Vaccination in Brazil: bioethical reflection on accessibility

Abstract

Vaccines have a strong influence on public health because of their effectiveness and favorable cost-benefit ratio. However, with new vaccines unavailable in the public system, the access by society in general must be discussed. This study aimed to identify the meaning of vaccination for the population and physicians, and address the issue of access to vaccines outside the public health system, emphasizing social vulnerability. Physicians and members of society were interviewed, and the data was analyzed using an exploratory qualitative methodology and the collective subject speech. The Brazilian immunization system was seen by respondents as good in general, with the main criticisms directed at information and the lack of vaccines. As for accessibility, data suggests a correlation with economic factors, generating bioethical discussions about the social vulnerability of most of society that cannot afford vaccination.