MAKING THE INVISIBILITY OF TECHNICAL WORKERS VISIBLE AT THE 4TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON WORK MANAGEMENT AND HEALTH EDUCATION (4TH CNGTES)

(em processo de edição)

Abstract

Introduction: The 4th National Conference on Health Workforce Management and Education (4th CNGTES) highlighted the invisibility of technical health workers, whose demands regarding training, working conditions, and political participation received little attention, despite their constituting the largest workforce within the Unified Health System (SUS). Objective: To analyze the underrepresentation of technical health workers at the 4th CNGTES, highlighting their importance in the daily operations of the SUS, the contradictions inherent in this invisibility, and the need to develop inclusive policies that recognize and value this segment. Method: Qualitative study whose data were obtained through two semi-structured interviews conducted during the 4th CNGTES in Brasília with an organizer and a delegate from the Independent Conference titled “Health training and work: towards an expanded conception of technical workers in the Unified Health System (SUS)”. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Three analysis categories were identified – underrepresentation and visibility of technical workers in the SUS; challenges to participation in national health conferences; and the need for mobilization and the development of inclusive policies. The results showed that the low participation of these workers stems from institutional barriers, difficulties in obtaining time off to participate, and training programs that are poorly aligned with the principles of the SUS, thereby compromising their representation in the formulation of public policies. Conclusion: Strengthening Independent Conferences and the social participation of technical workers is crucial for expanding their political representation and informing the development of more inclusive policies regarding health workforce management and education.