The Digital Vaccination Card in access to public health in Brazil

an analysis of its challenges as an archival document

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the Digital National Vaccination Card as an archival document considering its use for the realization of the right to health in Brazil. To this end, aspects related to archival documents, from physical to digital, were examined, considering the vaccination context that leads to the creation of the vaccination card and, ultimately, its use in accessing healthcare services. The methodology consisted of a narrative review combining bibliographic research and exploratory documentary analysis in databases, governmental websites, and legislation. The results indicate that the Digital National Vaccination Card enhances access to immunization information and strengthens the right to health, yet it presents archival challenges. Technological dependence and the absence of consolidated digital preservation policies threaten the integrity, reliability, and authenticity of records. Additionally, the lack of full interoperability between systems negatively affects document quality. Therefore, it is considered that the Digital National Vaccination Card supports the maintenance of accurate and accessible records of administered vaccines, contributing both to individual immunization monitoring and to the realization of the right to health, despite its challenges. Furthermore, the limited academic literature addressing digital documents as an instrument for guaranteeing these rights underscores the need for more comprehensive research on the subject.