Experiences of access and use of primary health care by users with systemic arterial hypertension

Abstract

Objective: To identify and analyze users’ perceptions of access and use of health services and actions to monitor Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) in Primary Health Care (PHC). Methods: This is a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study based on 38 semi-structured interviews conducted with users selected from Basic Health Units (BHUs) in a large municipality in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Thematic content analysis was used to identify the empirical categories. Results: Users faced difficulties in scheduling appointments, accessing laboratory test results and medicines at the BHU. Home visits by Community Health Workers (CHWs) intermediated demands for appointments and tests. There were no health education activities and follow-up by the nursing team was residual. The doctor was the main reference, although links were weakened by turnover. Conclusion: The study identified the need to expand access to basic medicines and test results at the BHU, the role of nurses in promotional, preventive and clinical actions, the scope of CHWs’ work in health education and interprofessional work.