[Professional education and work of indigenous health agents in the Brazilian health system].

OBJECTIVE To discuss the role of indigenous health agents in the implementation of the model of differentiated attention or intercultural health in Brazil. MATERIALS AND METHODS We revised the scientific literature about the work and professional education of indigenous health agents in the Brazilian indigenous health system. RESULTS There is a subordination of the agents to the hegemonic medical model. With regards to professional education, we observe the absence and irregularity of these processes, with a general emphasis the biomedicine. There are conflicts with the health team and community, with devaluation of the agents. The agent does not plays the role of mediator between the different health knowledge and practices. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that the discussion of the model of differentiated attention should strengthen the relationship between the health system and the selfcare.