Continuous Cash Benefit (BCP) for disabled individuals: access barriers and intersectoral gaps

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Policy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The 1988 Constitution established the Continuous Cash Benefit (BCP) for low-income elders and disabled individuals.
• In 2015, approximately 4 million people received this benefit, highlighting its significance.
• The BCP's administration involves complex coordination between social security, social welfare, and health sectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze intersectoral coordination gaps impacting access to the Continuous Cash Benefit (BCP) for disabled persons.
• To identify how these coordination failures create barriers for potential beneficiaries.
• To propose improvements for BCP implementation and access.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving physicians, administrative staff, and social workers.
• Data collection from the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) and Social Welfare Reference Centers (CRAS).
• Research conducted across three municipalities in different Brazilian regions.

Main Results:

• Intersectoral coordination is more formalized at the federal level.
• Local coordination relies on informal, horizontal initiatives leading to discontinuous solutions.
• The effectiveness of Social Welfare Reference Centers (CRAS) is contingent on implementation.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in intersectoral coordination mechanisms at the local level.
• These gaps create substantial barriers to accessing the Continuous Cash Benefit (BCP).
• There is a clear need for institutionalized coordination between social welfare, health, and social insurance to enhance BCP access.