Revista de APS

Expediente - 2025; 28

Revista de APS Secretaria — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Primary Health Care as a teaching space: challenges and possibilities

Fernando Braz Piuzana — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The development of human resources in the health area is a fundamental process to qualify the care provided to the population and it is up to the SUS to organize such training. The National Policy for Continuing Education in Health (PNEPS) was established in 2004 by Ordinance No. 198/GM, of February 13, 2004 as a strategy that aims at the training and development of professionals and workers through the integration of teaching and service, with a view to strengthening the fundamental principles of the SUS.

Family registration from the perspective of Community Health Agents in the Family Health Strategy

Talyta Martins Reis, Gledsângela Ribeiro Carneiro, Mauricéa Maria de Santana — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The software for household registration is a component of the work process of the Family Health Strategy. It allows for the recognition of local realities through a situational diagnosis by identifying health needs within the social environment. The study aims to understand the implementation of the family registration process in the software from the perspective of Community Health Agents. It is a qualitative study involving 12 professionals, who were divided into two focus groups. The data were processed using thematic analysis of three categories: work process, family registration in the software, and difficulties and facilitators in the family registration process. The results indicate that the implementation of the registration process is limited due to ineffective training, inadequate technical support, poor synchronization between information systems, lack of infrastructure and technological equipment, absence of healthcare users during professional visits, and violence resulting from drug trafficking and police operations in the area.

Sociodemographic profile and vaccine hesitancy against COVID-19 of children assisted by a Family Health Strategy

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: COVID-19 has brought about the most significant public health emergency in recent years, and vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major challenge, requiring research to inform public policies. This study aimed to analyze the sociodemographic variables of children and vaccine hesitancy against COVID-19 among those receiving care under the Family Health Strategy in Conceição do Mato Dentro, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methodology: A cross-sectional, exploratory, and retrospective study was conducted with a sample of 352 children between January and July 2022. To assess associations between vaccine hesitancy and sociodemographic characteristics, Fisher’s Exact Test was used. When an association was identified, the odds ratio was calculated. Results: A total of 73.86% of the children were vaccinated, while 10.80% had not received any dose. It was found that Catholics had 4.03 times higher odds of being vaccinated, while individuals belonging to microarea 2 had 57% lower odds (OR = 0.43) of being vaccinated. Conclusion: The findings are believed to support public health actions aimed at countering misinformation and strengthening the user- professional relationship, contributing to improved health outcomes.

The work process of the office team on the street in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: to understand the Consultório na Rua team's perception of the work process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Qualitative research with eight professionals from the Consultório na Rua team in a capital city in the northeast of Brazil, between September and November 2020. A semi-structured interview guide was used. The statements were recorded in audio and video and later transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis according to Minayo. Results: The results in relation to the experiences of Consultório na Rua professionals in providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic were grouped into two thematic categories: the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work process of the Consultório na Rua team and the physical and psycho-emotional health of the Consultório na Rua professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Final considerations: The COVID-19 pandemic imposed challenges on the work process, requiring adaptation to the new health context and the management of limited resources. The physical and psycho-emotional health of professionals was also impacted. This study contributes to the identification of challenges and coping strategies for the team, which contributes to the formulation of public health and social policies adapted to the reality of HP and the professionals responsible for assistance.

Functional Clinical Vulnerability Index (IVFC-20): the recognition of the fragile elderly person by Primary Health Care

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Aging, inherent to every human being, is a phenomenon of global magnitude. Age itself is an inappropriate predictor, as aging is a heterogeneous pattern. This process is associated with biopsychosocial changes. This study sought to evaluate the clinical-functional vulnerability index (IVCF-20) of elderly people registered in a Basic Family Health Unit in the city of Teresópolis - RJ. The study was a cross-sectional, descriptive, and quantitative one, consisting of community-dwelling elderly subjects. They were evaluated using an identification form and analysis of sociodemographic conditions and the IVCF-20. When analyzing 100 respondents, 74% were female and 26% male, with an average age of 72.18 years, 81% were white, 61% had incomplete primary education, and 71% were retired. No association was identified between frailty in the elderly and sociodemographic factors. The presence of frailty was equivalent to 63% high risk, 29% medium risk, 8% low risk. A high prevalence of pre-frail and frail elderly people was observed, and no factors associated with frailty syndrome were identified. Understanding and considering frailty and its multifactorial aspects gives visibility to this reality and can help promote strategies and actions for the prevention and tracking of vulnerable elderly people.

Association between Continuity of Patient Care and resoluteness of Primary Health Care in patients with chronic diseases

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: It can be questioned whether the continuity of patient care interferes with the resoluteness of the control of chronic diseases, since this attribute is associated with the relationship between the health professional and the patient over time, as well as the need for care that chronic diseases demand. Objectives: Verification of association between the continuity of care and Primary Health Care (PHC) resoluteness. Methods: Study developed in 13 Basic Health Units. Participants were users over 17 years of age with, at least one, chronic disease. PCATool was used to measure the continuity of care and the rate of referrals to specialized service, which was used to measure resoluteness. Clinical data from hypertensive and diabetic patients were used to assess the quality of services. Results: Continuity of care presented a high score (6.74 ± 2.07). There was no statistical association between the continuity of care and referral to a specialized service nor between the clinical measures and the referral of patients. Conclusion: It is not possible to state that the continuity of care is directly associated with the resolution of PHC.

Program for Monitoring Health Surveillance Actions in Minas Gerais – ProMAVS/MG: the experience of implementing a health superintendence

Shirlei de Sousa Araújo, Estela Márcia Saraiva Campos — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Health Surveillance has the function of monitoring and evaluating public health actions. In Minas Gerais the Program for Monitoring Health Surveillance Actions ProMAVS, was created with the aim of continuing health surveillance actions. This study aimed to analyze the processo f monitoring and evaluating the health indicators of the ProMAVS carried out by the Regional Health Superintendence of Juiz de Fora/ MG (SRS/JF), seeking to understand the advances and difficulties in this process. Interviews were carried out using a semi-structured script, with technicians from the SRS/JF and with technicians from the municipalities in the área covered by Iramuteq Software, through a lexical analysis of the texts. Several issues made it difficult for municipalities to carry out actions and comply with the indicators proposed by ProMAVS. However, the monitoting and evaluation process can contribute to municipal management in decision-making. It is concluded that the ProMAVS was considered beneficial for the municipalities, but a reformulation is necessary so that there is a decentralization of health surveillance actions.

Primary Healthcare workers' discourses in the context of syndemic: psychosocial risks and repercussions

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study aimed at understanding the psychosocial repercussions of the syndemic context on Primary Healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and the period of labor deregulation. This qualitative research explored the psychosocial repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on Primary Healthcare workers in Fortaleza, Ceará. Discourse Analysis was used to examine the reports of 21 workers from three Primary Health Care Units (Unidades de Atenção Primária à Saúde – UAPS), highlighting the risks of urban violence and the biological and psychosocial effects of the syndemic. The results indicated that the pandemic exacerbated job precariousness and the mental health of professionals due to high demand, scarcity of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and uncertainties about disease management. Violence in work territories and insufficient resource management were identified as aggravating factors for working conditions and the mental health of Primary Healthcare workers.

Consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic on the care of people with Diabetes Mellitus in a municipality in Minas Gerais

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus (DM), a chronic condition with high morbidity and mortality, requires longitudinal care from Primary Health Care (PHC) to ensure patient well-being and prevent complications. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted health systems and interrupted routine health care processes. Objective: to describe the frequency of follow-up of patients with DM in PHC in a municipality in Minas Gerais in the pre-, intra- and post-pandemic periods. Methodology: this is a retrospective cohort observational study (2019-2022), analyzing 190 medical records. Data were described using absolute and relative frequencies. Results: in the pre-pandemic period, 12.1% of patients did not attend consultations. During the pandemic, this number rose to 16.3% in 2020 and 18.9% in 2021. In the post-pandemic period, the rate increased to 24.2%. Additionally, the number of patients seen only for prescription renewals was higher in 2020 compared to non-pandemic periods. Discussion: there was a reduction in follow-up during the pandemic, with a progressive increase in patients without regular consultations, highlighting the vulnerability of the health care network during the pandemic period. Conclusion: longitudinal follow-up is essential to prevent complications from chronic hyperglycemia. However, the study shows that clinical follow-up of people with DM in the PHC of the studied municipality falls short of national guidelines, with decreasing follow-up rates during the intra- and post-pandemic scenarios.

Understanding the phases of life: the relationship between healthcare professionals and different patient profiles

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The central aim of this study is to promote a comprehensive understanding of the phases of human development, emphasizing their relevance in both academic settings and professional health practice. Through the exploration of innovative educational methodologies, the study seeks to deepen knowledge about the physical, emotional, and social changes that occur across the life span. Such understanding is essential for health professionals to adapt their approaches and care strategies to the specific needs of each stage of life. To this end, the study analyzes the evolution of participants’ understanding of human development throughout a series of educational sessions, investigating how engagement in these activities relates to the acquisition and application of knowledge. This cross-sectional study adopted a quantitative and descriptive approach, involving health professionals and students. It also evaluated the effectiveness of the proposed questions, identifying the developmental stages with the greatest variation in responses. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon, Chi-square, and McNemar tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results demonstrated a clear improvement in knowledge acquisition, particularly concerning the young adult and elderly stages. These findings highlight the link between life stages and healthcare practices, reinforcing the value of playful educational methodologies in the training of health professionals. Additionally, the study encourages further research into human development across the life course and the promotion of humanized care practices in diverse educational settings.

Quality of Primary Health Care dental services from the perspective of users and dentists

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: To assess the quality of oral health care from the perspective of users and dentists. Method: Cross-sectional study with 222 users and 16 dentists from primary health care units. Data collection with the Primary Care Assessment Tool PCATool-Brazil Oral Health. Quality was considered satisfactory when the score was higher than 6.6. Analysis using Student's t-test and Mann Whitney U test. Results: Overall score of 7.24 from the perspective of dentists and 6.39 for users. The satisfactory components from the users' perspective were: affiliation (8.42), utilization (9.17), and services available (7.14); and, from the dentists' perception, longitudinality (6.80), integration of care (7.44), information system (8.06), services available (8.85), services provided (9.39), and family guidance (7.29). The comparison of scores detected significant differences in the attributes of care integration (p<0.001), information system (p= 0.001), available services (p<0.001), services provided (p<0.001), family guidance (p<0.001) and community guidance (p=0.033); as well as in the essential (p<0.001) and general (0.005) scores. Conclusion: The results demonstrate statistical differences in the assessment of service quality between the groups, with better scores in the perception of professionals. It is expected that the study will collaborate in the implementation of strategies that qualify work processes and favor effective and efficient dental care.

Use of teledentistry tools in Primary Health Care during the covid-19 pandemic

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This cross-sectional study investigated the adoption of teledentistry tools in Primary Health Care (PHC) during the covid-19 pandemic, as well as the associated variables. Data were collected using an online, semi-structured questionnaire sent to municipal oral health managers in Brazil and analyzed using association tests and multiple logistic regression, with a significance level of 5%. The average age of the participants was 40, the majority of whom were female (69.85%), had a postgraduate degree (68.92%) and worked exclusively in management (63.48%). Around half of the participants held an institutionalized position (50.33%) and 18.73% had received training for the job. The practice of teledentistry was non-existent in almost half of the municipalities (43.03%). Municipalities in the North (OR=0.338) or South (OR=0.405) were significantly less likely to have teledentistry; those that carried out oral health planning activities (OR=2.651), or whose managers had received prior training (OR=1.748), were significantly more likely to adopt teledentistry. We have concluded that the practice of teledentistry was non-existent in almost half of the Brazilian municipalities and was associated with geographical region, prior training of managers and the planning activities of the Oral Health Teams.

Riverside and River Family Health Teams in regulatory acts of the Ministry of Health - Brazil

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The aim was to identify the central topics of the regulatory acts referring to Riverine Family Health and Riverine Family Health teams and Riverine Basic Health Units. This is a documentary study carried out in three stages: 1) search of regulatory acts of the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the National Council of Municipal Health Departments; 2) thematic categorical analysis; 3) interpretation/reflection. A total of 108 ordinances were accessed, and most of them were directed at Riverine Basic Health Units. The number of ordinances increased over the period. The analysis is divided into two categories: “From invisibility to visibility of riverine populations”; and “Proposals for Riverine Family Health and Riverine Family Health teams and Riverine Basic Health Units”. The regulatory content addressed team composition, work arrangements, and financing, and aimed to accredit and qualify municipalities to receive financial incentives, change team types, establish criteria for registration in information systems, and suspend financial incentives. The conclusion is that the 2011 Brazilian National Primary Care Policy constituted a timeframe for visibility and the possibility of guaranteeing access to the right to health for riverside populations. The discontinuity of financial transfers proves to be an obstacle that must be overcome.

Factors preventing women from choosing an intrauterine device in primary health care

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objectives and methods: The study is a cross-sectional, descriptive-quantitative study, carried out in two Primary Health Care Units, located in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza, in Caucaia, through the application of a supervised questionnaire with mixed questions, by two trained interviewers, women in menopause, in elective consultations or spontaneous demand, under consent, composing consecutive sampling, between December/2022 and June/2024. The data was collected and analyzed on the RedCap® platform using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Mann-Whitney statistical tests for normality. Results: Of the 173 women interviewed, the majority were brown (69.9%), with children (73.3%), married/stable union (60.1%) and had completed high school (50.3%). Most of the women reported that there were factors discouraging them from seeking the device as a contraceptive, the most common being lack of information and fear. There was an association (p<0.001) between lack of information and lack of interest in the device. Conclusion: Poor information for patients at an opportune time for their health is an important gap to be resolved, given the various obstacles such as pressure on health care, the lack of information and the lack of interest in the device. Health education is part of the process of empowering women, allowing each one to choose their method, individually, according to their expectations, reality and health condition.

Palliative care in primary health care in times of COVID-19: the experience of health professionals

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Primary care is the organizer and coordinator of palliative care; however, covid-19 brought challenges to its practice. Thus, with the aim of understanding the perception of primary care professionals' performance regarding palliative patient care during the most critical periods of the pandemic, this is the result of qualitative research held in 16 primary care units in a western municipality from Paraná, gathering data obtained via sample calculation and randomization in the R® software. From November 2021 to March 2022, 12 doctors, 16 nurses and 10 social workers were interviewed. Most of them were placed in Family Health Units and were Brazilian; female, with an average age of 40 years; and had specialization in family health, with an average training time of 13 years and 8 years working in their current roles. After being transcribed, the interviews were organized considering Alfred Schütz's phenomenology. The perception regarding healthcare highlighted the adversities, especially due to home visits and the relocation of professionals, when the main expectations focused on adapting the number of professionals and health technologies. This study made it possible to understand, from the professionals' perspective, the impact of the pandemic on the care of palliative patients linked to the researched units.

Sexual and reproductive health of adolescents in Primary Health Care: reflections of professionals from the culture circle

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Primary Health Care services can contribute to actions to promote and prevent serious adverse effects on adolescents. However, difficulties in implementing these assumptions are perceived, highlighting the adequacy of health services, the creation of bonds, the strengthening of the relationship with the family and the community, and the inclusion of adolescents in activities. Objective: To investigate the perceptions of family health team professionals about the best strategies to improve sexual and reproductive health care for adolescents in their territory. Methodology: Qualitative study of the participatory action type, which adopts the theoretical methodological framework of the Freirean Itinerary (IF), a methodological strategy based on the liberating pedagogical perspective that is guided by dialogue and horizontal relationships. Results: Nine professionals participated in the research. In the first stage of the Culture Circle, 21 themes were raised, 4 of which were coded and decoded, with 2 of them being critically unveiled: Work Management, in which they presented the characteristics and difficulties of the work process in approaching adolescents, as well as possible alternatives to be incorporated into the work process; and Health Education, a moment in which they considered the communication barriers faced by professionals and families with adolescents, in addition to the knowledge gaps for providing care to adolescents. Final considerations: The study revealed the team's distance from adolescent sexual health, due to weaknesses in training and legal challenges. Continuing Health Education actions are crucial to overcome barriers and ensure comprehensive care.

Intersectoral actions in the promotion of health for people with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This article aimed to identify intersectoral actions implemented at the municipal level for the prevention and control of Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases, specifically Diabetes Mellitus, Systemic Arterial Hypertension, and Obesity, in a municipality in the Vale dos Sinos region in Rio Grande do Sul. The methodological approach adopted was qualitative, using semi-structured interviews. The participants were community leaders and representatives from the municipality's departments. Data analysis was conducted through content analysis, supported by the Atlas.ti software. The results highlight the relevance of intersectoral strategies and actions to strengthen the control, prevention, and health promotion for users of Primary Health Care in the municipality, as well as emphasizing the importance of strengthening the support network within the territories. It is concluded that challenges still need to be overcome, and it is necessary to create organizational structures that allow for the effective implementation of healthcare practices in the territories. This study was funded by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) through Call No. 27/2020.

Food and nutrition surveillance of children: the most common problems faced by primary care professionals

Cintia Aparecida Souza, Claudia Nery Teixeira Palombo, Elizabeth Fujimori — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: to identify the most frequent feeding and nutrition problems in the care of children under two years of age in primary care. Method: cross-sectional study with primary care professionals between March and April 2021 by electronic questionnaire, via messaging application, using the snowball technique. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Results: 122 professionals participated; most of whom were nutritionists (42.7%); 67.2% were linked to the Family Health Strategy. The most frequent problems were: consumption of ultra-processed foods (86%); overweight for age (73%), and early food introduction (41.8%). Overweight and/or underweight were the main reasons for referral to the nutritionist (59.7%) and also the most common issues addressed by nutritionists (80%). Conclusions: consumption of ultra-processed foods, overweight, and early food introduction are the most common problems in the care of children under two years of age. The importance of training for food and nutrition surveillance is reinforced with a view to greater problem-solving capacity in primary care.

Oral health in well-childcare: Assessing the knowledge of physicians and nurses

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Integrating oral health into childcare pathways requires a cross-cutting approach that prioritizes health promotion and prevention through a multidisciplinary approach. This quantitative, cross-sectional study analyzed oral health knowledge among physicians and nurses in the Family Health Strategy (FHS) during well-child visits conducted between August and October 2024. Data were obtained using a self-administered online questionnaire and analyzed in SPSS 27.0 using Pearson's chi-square test and Poisson regression with robust variance. The sample consisted of 101 professionals—33 physicians and 67 nurses. Although only 19.8% had received training on early childhood oral health, 69.3% reported providing guidance on the topic during consultations, and 73.3% routinely referred children for dental evaluation. Nurses were more frequently responsible for delivering primary guidance, while physicians demonstrated greater knowledge regarding indications for frenectomy (p<0.001). The highest error rates were observed in questions related to prolonged antibiotic use and natal/neonatal teeth (73.3%). Overall, FHS physicians and nurses showed satisfactory knowledge of childhood oral health. Nonetheless, ongoing professional development is essential to ensure continuous improvement in the quality of care provided.

Analysis of communication strategies in promoting cytopathological examination: qualitative study

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The objective of this study was to understand the strategic communication actions of nurses in Primary Care in their active search for women to undergo cytopathological tests. This is an exploratory, qualitative study conducted with nurses in UBSs (Basic Health Units) in rural and urban areas of a municipality in the interior of Pernambuco between May and June 2024. The data were analyzed using the software Interface de R pour les Analyses Multidimensionnelles de Textes et de Questionnaires. From the maximum tree, two central nuclei emerged, in which the terms “woman” and “community health agent” are found. From the emerging core of the term “woman,” two other cores emerged: one in red, predominantly related to the terms “exam,” “perform,” “visit,” and “strategy,” and the second core, in blue, with the terms “be,” “understand,” and “speak.” The lexicographic content was organized into six classes: importance of the community health worker, communication strategies, strategies for attracting patients resistant to the exam, strategies for meeting goals, continuing education for nurses, and challenges in promoting cytological exams. The study showed that promoting cytopathological screening requires efforts by the health and education sectors, the media, social institutions, and community organizations. It is essential that such actions also include community leaders. The active participation of nurses as health educators and campaign facilitators, combined with the creation of public policies that encourage the dissemination of accessible information, significantly increased adherence to the exam.

Health promotion, primary care and skin cancer prevention from the viewpoint of the Nola Pender model: scoping review

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Health promotion practices and knowledge, among Primary Health care scope, that involve skin care, are essential for changing habits and reducing the prevalence of skin cancer among different populations. Objective: To map and characterize the scientific knowledge about health promotion practices in the prevention of skin cancer at a collective level. Method: This is a Scope Review study, carried out using the Pubmed, Lilacs, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science and Cinahl databases. Data analysis was based on Nola Pender's Health Promotion Model. Results: The influences for prevention come from social support. The negative situational influences found were heat, the lack of financial resources and shade, and to work outdoors. The commitment to an action plan proved to be effective in primary and secondary prevention actions. Conclusion: scientific evidence shows that collective health practices to prevent skin cancer generate changes in behavior, habits and lifestyle in the face of a collective commitment. Such practices included the four essential elements and are essential for the adoption of health-promoting behaviors and healthy lifestyle habits from the biopsychosocial context.

Nurses’ practices in caring for children in Primary Health Care: integrative review

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Primary Health Care in Brazil is structured to ensure that all individuals have access to health services. The main provider of primary care is the nurse, who plays a key role in promoting health through a set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that effectively support individuals throughout their lives. The nurse’s essential role in child care is particularly highlighted during nursing and child health consultations. In this context, the study aimed to examine the scientific evidence on nursing practices in child care within Primary Health Care. This is an integrative review, with searches conducted in four databases in February 2023. Sample selection was carried out by two independent researchers using the Rayyan software. The analysis was supported by the WebQDA software. A total of 33 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included for thematic analysis. From the thematic analysis of the selected studies, the phenomenon "Child Care Practices in Primary Health Care" emerged, systematized into three analytical categories: "Nurse's Role and Perception," "Child Nursing Consultation," and "Challenges in Child Health Care." The study highlights the potential of nursing actions in child care, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and family-centered approach, despite limitations in child health follow-up due to a lack of training, workload burden, and scarcity of specific protocols.

Bioethics and telemedicine in Primary Health Care: a state-of-the-art review

Wilmara Lopes Fialho, Andréia Patrícia Gomes — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool, particularly at the first level of health care — Primary Health Care (PHC) — and gained considerable prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a relatively new health technology, several questions regarding its bioethical implications warrant thorough discussion. This narrative review explores telemedicine within the context of PHC and the associated bioethical considerations, aiming to present the current state of knowledge on the topic. The literature search was conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), MEDLINE/PubMed, and Cochrane databases. The distinction between telemedicine and telehealth is often blurred, and the terms are used interchangeably in this study. Telemedicine has seen substantial development in recent decades, and PHC represents a particularly suitable environment for the expansion of this technology due to its structural and functional characteristics. Despite the apparent benefits, the ethical and legal challenges surrounding telemedicine require further investigation. Although international and national guidelines and regulations have been established to address these issues, they remain inadequate given the complexities of information and communication technologies and the inherently multifaceted nature of PHC.

Strategies of artificial intelligence and business intelligence applied to immunization in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: The application of Business Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence has been used in the health sector, especially in the area of immunization, which generates large amounts of data and health records. Objective: Investigate how artificial intelligence and business intelligence have been used to increase immunization. Method: Integrative review of studies selected through a search strategy in the databases, PubMed/MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, after meeting the eligibility criteria of the proposed protocol. Results: We obtained a total of 608 records, of which 75 had their titles and summaries read, 25 included. Of these, 5 duplicates were excluded, totaling 20 articles, of which 12 had a direct or indirect relationship with the theme of study in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Articles published between 2020 and 2023 were categorized according to the theme addressed as follows: Monitoring (4 studies); Vaccine Development (3 studies); and Health Communication (5 studies). Conclusion: The use of these strategies favors the context of immunization with a focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, pointing to the democratization of data to promote public policies, generating ease of access and reading of data to assist decision-making by management, as well as helping to reduce the time for vaccine production.

Users’ views on nursing care in Primary Health Care: scoping review

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: to map the scientific evidence on users’ views on nursing care in Primary Health Care (PHC). Methodology: scoping review, according to the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, with a search in the SCIELO, BVS (LILACS, BDENF, and Medline), EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases, in addition to a search for gray literature, between 2011 and 2024. Results: Seventeen studies were selected for the final sample of the review, with a predominance of publications in 2014, and research carried out in the Southeast region of Brazil. Only studies that included users of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) among the subjects analyzed were included. The results were grouped into two categories: “User perception of embracement” and “Factors that determine user satisfaction or dissatisfaction with embracement.” Users’ opinions about embracement are positive, especially regarding the care provided by nurses. However, there are few recent studies on the subject. There is a lack of understanding about the embracement process and the assignments of PHC. This highlights the need to invest in health education to clarify these points and promote active user participation. This highlights the need to invest in health education to clarify these points and promote active user participation.

Medical residencies and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Brazil: an analysis of scientific production

Roseane Gonçalves Fonseca, Luis Alberto Valotta, Paulo Roberto Ramos — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: To map and analyze Brazilian scientific production at the intersection between medical residency programs and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with particular attention to the recently proposed SDGs (18, 19, and 20). Method: A scoping review was conducted through a systematic search in October 2024 across the BVS, SciELO, and CAPES Journal Portal databases. Results: The search identified five studies addressing specialties such as Psychiatry, Family and Community Medicine, Neurosurgery, Primary Care, and Occupational Medicine. The analysis revealed an emerging body of scientific work, with convergences around traditional SDGs, such as Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10). However, a critical gap was observed in the explicit discussion of the recently proposed SDGs (18, 19, and 20). A deeper contextual examination demonstrated that indirect links with Racial Equality (SDG 18) and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (SDG 20) are present in the territories where the residency programs operate, even if not explicitly acknowledged. SDG 19 (Art, Culture, and Communication), however, was entirely absent from the analysed literature. Conclusions: Medical residency programs in Brazil hold significant potential to contribute to the SDG agenda, yet they function in a fragmented way. An intentional and theoretically grounded incorporation of the expanded SDGs is needed—transforming existing contextual connections into deliberate educational strategies—in order to strengthen their role in promoting a more equitable and sustainable health system.

Participant observation in research on multiprofessional care in Primary Health Care

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence available in the literature regarding the use of participant observation in research on multiprofessional healthcare. Methodology: An integrative literature review was conducted using the LILACS, MEDLINE, and SCIELO databases in July 2024. The guiding research question was: What are the main findings in the scientific literature from studies that used the participant observation method in multiprofessional care in Primary Health Care? Inclusion criteria were original articles published between 2014 and 2024, available in full text, in Portuguese, English, or Spanish. Editorials and literature reviews were excluded. Results: A total of 109 publications were identified, of which 8 met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. The study settings included Primary Health Care Units and Street Clinics. Most studies were conducted with Family Health Strategy teams, and all were classified as Level VI evidence. Conclusion: Participant observation enabled the investigation of diverse contexts within multiprofessional care in Primary Health Care, highlighting the importance of professional collaboration, team coordination, and participation in intersectoral activities to achieve comprehensive care. The use of this approach enhances the understanding of complex phenomena and fosters a relationship of trust between the researcher and participants.

Territorialization and the Community Health Agent in Primary Care: an experience report

Gabriella Vinhas Cotta, Rodrigo de Oliveira Vilela — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Primary Health Care is the preferred entry point of the Unified Health System (SUS) in Brazil. The Family Health Strategy is the operational care model of PHC, which is organized through teams that provide services in Basic Health Units. The role of the Community Health Agent is essential for the effectiveness of the Family Health Strategy within PHC and is of utmost importance for health action planning. Based on this recognition, the tools described in this article were developed, including a Practical Guide for Territorial Action, spreadsheets containing the census tracts of the addresses assigned to family health teams, and a template for creating a live map by each team. The Guide provided detailed instructions on how to use these tools for territorialization. This is an experience report from a descriptive and critical-reflective perspective on the reality experienced as part of the work of the resident in the Multiprofessional Family and Community Health Program and the preceptorship of the residency scenario located in the Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Management of PHC in the Central Region of the Federal District Health Department. A comprehensive PHC, anchored by the Family Health Strategy, recognizes the territory as the organizer of care. Tools that assist in the paths of territorialization and recognition of community demands are essential for its implementation and for strengthening the work performed by the CHA.

Health education on electronic smoking devices: an experience report with Socratic maieutics

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The growing consumption of electronic smoking devices (ESDs), especially among adolescents, has become a significant challenge for public health and health education. The perception that these products are less harmful than traditional cigarettes favors their popularization, requiring innovative pedagogical strategies that promote critical reflection and autonomy in health-related choices. This experience report describes the application of an adaptation of the Socratic method, combined with the use of irony, as pedagogical strategies to raise awareness among adolescents about the harmful effects of ESDs. Furthermore, we sought to analyze, within the specific context in which it was implemented, the effectiveness of this approach both qualitatively and quantitatively, providing insights for its use in other Primary Health Care settings. The intervention took place in a public school with adolescent students, led by medical students as part of the discipline Practice of Integration, Teaching, Service, and Community. The activity utilized Socratic dynamics with visual aids, rewards, and interactive discussions. To assess its impact, anonymous pre- and post-tests were administered, and students' spontaneous statements were recorded and later analyzed using thematic interpretation. The results demonstrated significant progress in understanding the risks of DEFs, with a reduction in misconceptions and increased engagement in discussions. Thus, the experience highlights the potential of this teaching strategy to strengthen health promotion and surveillance actions in the region, in line with programs such as Saúde na Escola (Health in School).

Possibilities and challenges for interdisciplinary education in a specialization course in collective health

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Historically, the training of health professionals has been based on a positivist and biomedical model, fragmented into areas and themes. Although many efforts aim to align this training with the complexity and diversity of population health needs and with the principles of the SUS, this gap persists. This article presents the experience of the multiprofessional lato sensu postgraduate course in collective health. The general aim of the specialization course in collective health at the Instituto de Saúde is to prepare students for multidisciplinary practice in the dimensions of public policies and health care within the SUS. The course highlights the opportunity for students to complete the practical module within a municipal health system, working alongside managers and health workers and responding to local needs. Graduates have great potential to become SUS workers or managers who act with a critical interdisciplinary perspective on public health policies and with a transformative professional practice, using scientific evidence to solve problems and propose innovations in health care and health system management.

Permanent Health Education as a care management instrument in Primary Care: an experience report on updating in the vaccine room

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: To report on the training experience carried out along the nursing team and the Community Health Agents from a Primary Health Unit about vaccinal updates, and children and teenagers’ vaccine card updating. Method: an experience report of a training about vaccines, carried out over three days with the nursing team and Health Agents. The vaccination schedule of children, adolescents, adults, elders, and pregnant women was discussed, and two days were dedicated for updating the vaccination card of students on a public school. Results: The training and vaccination action were marked by positive feedbacks, as the professionals acknowledged the relevance of its content and applicability under the perspective of promoting health and preventing diseases. Conclusion: The training corroborated on deepening the knowledge on vaccinal updates. The vaccination in the school allowed the update of the vaccination card of children and adolescents.

Implementing a co-management space for primary health care: the Dialoga APS experience

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In Brazil, health is a constitutional right to be guaranteed through the Unified Health System, which is organized into a regionalized and hierarchical care network, with primary care as the organizer and coordinator of care. In this sense, continuing health education and institutional support are important tools for qualifying the system, through a model of co-management in health. This experience report aims to share the implementation of Dialoga APS, a space for co-management between institutional supporters and municipal primary care managers in Paraíba, Brazil. The space is developed through monthly meetings for reflection, discussion and collective construction of strategies to improve primary care work processes in various areas of activity, using active and critical-reflective methodologies based on permanent health education. Ninety-two meetings were held, reaching 90% of the state's municipalities, with an increasing number of participants at each meeting, reaching 1,545 professionals. It was identified that institutional support is a strategy capable of enabling the collective and democratic construction of new instruments and processes that have an impact on improving management and health care in the various territories. Mediated by the supporters, the Dialoga APS space made it possible to bring the federative entities closer together, to increase the capillari