THE PHYSIOTHERAPY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF JOÃO PESSOA: AN ANALYSIS FROM THE DEMANDS OF PRIMARY CARE

Abstract

In order to guarantee integrity in the physical therapy health care provided by the Brazilian unified healthcare system it is necessary to reflect about aspects of the work process organization, network and its service planning and administration, understanding that factors such as access and service quality may limit the effectiveness of the care delivered. Therefore, it is essential to study this context, intending to identify the main aspects of the relationship between the network services of physical therapy, considering their possibilities and limitations, starting at the Primary care. A descriptive research was developed with a qualitative and quantitative approach, through a case study of an Integrated Unit of Family Healthcare in the city of João Pessoa / Paraíba state. Using the tools of document analysis and semi-structured interviews with health professionals and users, it was possible to learn about the activities of the physiotherapist in Primary care, highlighting many times the need for making the referral to specialist physical therapy services. It was observed that characteristics such as the course of this referral, the waiting time for appointments with specialists and physical therapy sessions, and the amount of professional services and the territory distance, are difficulties in accessing specialist services, leading to a large repressed demand and worsening quality of life. The conclusion was the need for reorganization of the physical therapy services in the city, directing it to the population’s real demands, providing greater coverage and quality of care. DESCRIPTORS: Physiotherapy. Primary Care. Health Services.