Mirna Barros Teixeira

Academic Background and Research Focus

Dr. Mirna Barros Teixeira holds a Doctorate in Public Health from the esteemed Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública (ENSP/Fiocruz). This institution is a leading center for public health research and education in Latin America. Consequently, her academic journey has equipped her with a profound understanding of complex health systems and the social determinants of health. Her research activities are deeply embedded within Fiocruz, a foundation renowned for its significant contributions to science and health in Brazil and internationally.

Dr. Teixeira’s work consistently emphasizes evidence-based approaches to health. This is particularly relevant within the context of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), which actively promotes integrative practices. Therefore, her research provides valuable insights into the practical application and benefits of such approaches in a large-scale public health framework.

Contributions to Public Health through PICS

A significant portion of Mirna Barros Teixeira’s research investigates the implementation and impact of Práticas Integrativas e Complementares em Saúde (PICS) within Primary Health Care settings. PICS, encompassing a diverse range of traditional and complementary therapies, are officially recognized and encouraged by Brazil’s innovative National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC). Thus, her studies often explore how these practices can enhance well-being, prevent illness, and provide holistic care options for the population.

Furthermore, Dr. Teixeira examines the role of PICS in strengthening health promotion strategies. This aims to empower individuals and communities to take active roles in managing and improving their health. This focus aligns perfectly with the 3rd WCTCIM’s objective of advancing TCIM integration globally, sharing Brazil’s pioneering experiences in this domain.

The Role of Mirna Barros Teixeira in OBSERVAPICS/Fiocruz

As an integral member of OBSERVAPICS at Fiocruz, Mirna Barros Teixeira contributes to a vital national observatory. This body is dedicated to monitoring, analyzing, and disseminating information about PICS in Brazil. OBSERVAPICS plays a crucial role in producing scientific knowledge, supporting policy development, and fostering dialogue among researchers, health professionals, managers, and the public regarding integrative practices.

Consequently, her involvement with OBSERVAPICS underscores her commitment to building a robust evidence base for PICS. It also highlights her dedication to ensuring their effective and safe integration into the public health landscape. This work is instrumental in understanding the nuances of TCIM implementation, not only in Brazil but also as a model for other countries.

Advancing Primary Health Care and Health Promotion

Dr. Teixeira’s dedication to Primary Health Care (PHC) is a cornerstone of her professional endeavors. She champions PHC as the main gateway to the health system. Moreover, she views it as a critical space for implementing effective health promotion and disease prevention initiatives. Her research often explores innovative models that successfully integrate PICS into routine PHC services. These models aim to improve patient outcomes, enhance patient satisfaction, and increase access to diverse care modalities.

By focusing on health promotion, Dr. Mirna Barros Teixeira also addresses the broader determinants of health. She seeks to create healthier environments and promote well-being across different populations, thereby contributing to more resilient and equitable health systems. Her expertise in these areas is particularly relevant for international discussions on strengthening public health systems through integrative approaches.

Commitment to Evidence-Informed Integrative Health

Throughout her career, Mirna Barros Teixeira has demonstrated a strong and unwavering commitment to grounding integrative health practices in robust scientific evidence. She actively engages in and leads research projects designed to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of various PICS interventions. This rigorous approach aligns perfectly with the 3rd WCTCIM’s thematic axis, “Grounding Wisdom in Research.”

By contributing significantly to the body of knowledge on PICS, Dr. Teixeira helps to inform clinical decision-making and guide national policy formulation. Additionally, her work aims to build greater confidence in the value of integrative approaches among healthcare professionals and the public. Therefore, her research is essential for bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific validation, a key goal in the global TCIM community.

Mirna Barros Teixeira: WCTCIM Scientific Committee and Future Directions

As a member of the Scientific Committee for the 3rd World Congress on Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Mirna Barros Teixeira plays a key role. She is instrumental in shaping the scientific program of this significant global event, hosted in her home country, Brazil. Her extensive expertise in Brazilian PICS, public health research methodology, and primary care brings an invaluable perspective to the committee’s deliberations.

Consequently, she contributes to ensuring the congress addresses pressing global health issues and showcases cutting-edge research in TCIM. Looking forward, Dr. Teixeira’s continued work at ENSP/Fiocruz and OBSERVAPICS will undoubtedly further advance the understanding and integration of TCIM. Her efforts are particularly impactful within the Brazilian context, offering valuable lessons and models for international public health strategies. Her active participation in the 3rd WCTCIM highlights her dedication to fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange in this vital and evolving field.