Author:

• PAULO DE MEDEIROS ROCHA - Rocha, P.M. - NATAL, RN - UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE - <paulorocha@digi.com.br>

Thematic Area:

Avaliação de Serviços de Saúde

Abstract:

Primary health care in Portugal is undergoing a major reform, of which family health units (FHU) are one of the more visible results. This study aimed to evaluate the FHU implementation process from 2006 onwards. Methods from a previous study of primary care implementation in Brazil were used. Dimensions studied included comprehensiveness of care, organization of care, and political-institutional perspective. Main successes identified included better availability of care, team work, technical quality of care, innovative management practices, sustainability of the model, work conditions and infrastructural improvements. Main challenges remaining include integration with hospital care, political and institutional gray areas, need for better information systems, integration within health centers and workflow organization. These data may be useful to management decision-makers when making adjustments and corrections to the reform process.

Keywords:

EVALUATION PROCESS (HEALTH CARE) FAMILY HEALTH PRIMARY CARE HEALTH MANAGEMENT HEALTH REFORM

Content:

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