Interprofessional work in food and nutrition actions in Primary Health Care in Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais

Abstract

Food and nutrition actions in Primary Health Care (PHC) require interprofessional collaboration, with an emphasis on communication and teamwork, in order to improve the quality of health services. Objective: Characterize interprofessional food and nutrition actions in PHC in the municipality of Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais. Methods: This is a qualitative study conducted using an online questionnaire and observation of nutritionists working in PHC and the Multiprofessional Family Health Residency. Based on the questionnaire, a characterization was performed of the nutritionists, their activities, and the food and nutrition actions developed by other professionals. The data collected through observation were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: It was found that individual consultations, as well as home visits and shared consultations, stand out in the work of nutritionists. The results showed, based on the nutritionists’ perceptions, that although there is alignment with anthropometric assessment practices, challenges persist in the implementation of Food and Nutrition Surveillance actions by other professionals in PHC. Horizontal communication and interprofessional collaboration were identified; however, difficulties were observed in carrying out shared actions, as well as a lack of systematic planning and evaluation, factors that can compromise co-responsibility in care. Conclusion: To improve interprofessional food and nutrition actions, it is essential to raise awareness and train professionals, improve organization, management and working conditions, and value informal interactions as spaces for shared learning.