The Reorganization of Primary Health Care for user embracement in times of pandemics

Abstract

The spread of COVID-19 has necessitated changes in the organization of health services and has made primary health care play a key role in addressing the pandemic. The objective was to identify the reorganization of primary health care for user embracement in times of pandemic in a Brazilian municipality. Descriptive and exploratory research, with a qualitative approach, conducted from March to May 2022, through semi-structured interviews with 15 nurses working in the Family Health Strategy. The thematic analysis allowed the identification of the reorganization of primary care to welcome users with COVID-19; offering actions in the fight against COVID-19 and use of Information and Communication Technologies. The role of Primary Health Care coping with the pandemic is highlighted, however there was no standardization in the organization of PHC services in the municipality studied; implementation of care management, with the use of light technologies, such as guidance and health education, even the harsh ones, such as the use of Information and Communication Technologies, however, several of these changes were only possible due to the effort of professionals to organize the service in order to welcome users. Structuring investments in inputs and equipment for work are recommended, in addition to adapting the physical structure of the health units of the municipality for better user embracement.