We analyzed the identity of community health agents (CHAs) from gender categories in dialogue with the categories of public and private/domestic space, and popular and scientific knowledge. We noted that the profession of CHA is undervalued not because it is almost entirely occupied by women, but because it is seen as female work. This condition has historically been marked by gender inequality, in which women are correlated with family care and domestic tasks, and therefore with subordination. This profession reflects hegemonic gender positions within society and its identity is defined through day-to-day life, interactions with the healthcare team and community (which are full of conflicts and affections) and daily practices characterized by hierarchies. Concomitantly, this profession carries the possibility of an emancipatory social and political horizon, defined through creation of community work and organized to fulfill the principle of comprehensiveness.
Patriarchy; Gender system; Production relationships; Comprehensiveness; Healthcare work