Mental health ambulatory: Weaknesses pointed out by professionals

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the weaknesses of the mental health ambulatory service from the professionals’ perspective. This was a qualitative study, developed by the Fourth Generation Evaluation method. Data were collected during February and March 2013 with the use of non-participant observation, individual opened interviews and group technique for the negotiation session. The informants were 12 working professionals at the ambulatory. The results pointed out weaknesses in the organizational structure of the healthcare network in mental health, especially regarding accessibility, physical structure and the presence of extensive waiting list for care. Regarding human resources, issues included: ignorance of the operation of the mental health network and of the activities performed, medical turnover, deficiency in training and continuous education and professional devaluation. It is necessary to reflect on the real role of ambulatories within the mental health network and its effectiveness in providing care.