The implementation of the Mais Médicos (More Doctors) Program and comprehensiveness of care in the Family Health Strategy

Cien Saude Colet. 2016 Sep;21(9):2729-38. doi: 10.1590/1413-81232015219.15472016.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

The Mais Médicos (More Doctors) Program is a Brazilian government program that aims to expand access to medical care and thus improve the quality of primary healthcare delivery. This study aims to analyze the perceptions of nondoctor members of the Family Health Strategy teams regarding comprehensiveness of care after the inclusion of doctors from the program. The study encompassed 32 poor municipalities in Brazil's five geographical regions. A total of 78 health workers were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis and the software Atlas.ti Version 1.0.36. The study found that the program led to: an increase in access to and accessibility of services provided under the Family Health Strategy; humanized care and the establishment of bonds - understanding, partnership, friendship and respect; going back to clinical approaches - dedicated time, listening attentively, and detailed physical examination; the desire and willingness to resolve problems; continuity of care; guarenteeing home visits; and coordination of multidisciplinary teams in networks. It was concluded that the Mais Médicos Program contributed to the enhancement of comprehensiveness, thus leading to improvements in primary health care delivery.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brazil
  • Comprehensive Health Care*
  • Delivery of Health Care*
  • Family Health*
  • Female
  • Government Programs*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physicians / supply & distribution*
  • Workforce