Paths of the riverside population in the access to urgent and emergency care: challenges and potentialities

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the riverside population’s access to urgent and emergency services in Maués, Amazonas, Brazil, through the methodology of participatory approach and the analysis of talking maps and narratives. The relevance of the Community Health Agent came was highlighted, as well as the importance of mechanisms to deliver care in the riverside territory, such as the Fluvial Primary Care Unit and launches known as ambulanchas. However, challenges also came to light, like transportation in urgent and emergency situations and lack of a professional with a higher education degree to provide initial care in the territory. In addition, articulation and communication between sectors and the referral process are still deficient. Thus, strategies are needed to integrate the different points of the Healthcare Network, enabling communication and articulation. Moreover, new strategies to promote healthcare access must be developed in meetings between management and workers, grounded on reflective dialogue.