Abstract

DINIZ, Debora; SQUINCA, Flávia  and  MEDEIROS, Marcelo. Which disability?: medical evaluation and social assistance in Brazil. Cad. Saúde Pública [online]. 2007, vol.23, n.11, pp. 2589-2596. ISSN 0102-311X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-311X2007001100006.

This article examines the concept of disability adopted by the most important cash transfer program targeting the disabled population in Brazil, the Continuous Cash Benefit (Benefício de Prestação Continuada - BPC). The study compares the eligibility criteria established by law and the criteria used by medical examiners in the beneficiary selection process. The data are from a sample survey of 16% of the medical examiners working in the program. The questionnaire aims to assess the instructions, forms, and procedures for selecting disabled beneficiaries. The results show a discrepancy between the formal program criteria and actual practice by the examiners, suggesting an expanded concept of disability aimed at including beneficiaries with genetic, chronic, and severe infectious diseases.

Keywords : Social Assistance; Disabled Persons; Social Security.