Actions, Potentialities, and Limitations of the Brazilian Network of Care for People with Disabilities: A Qualitative Study
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People with disabilities, Health Care, Health Services, Comprehensive Health
Abstract
Introduction: The Care Network for Persons with Disabilities aims to provide comprehensive and continuous care to this population, structured through components of primary care, specialized rehabilitation care, and hospital care, including urgent and emergency care. In this context, the Care Network should be anchored in the guidelines of decentralization and regionalization of health to promote equal access.
Objective: To understand the actions aimed at people with disabilities, and the strengths and limitations of the Care Network for Persons with Disabilities in the IX Health Region of Pernambuco, Brazil.
Materials and Methods: This is a qualitative narrative study, guided by Critical Disability Theory, conducted with five regional health managers and five primary care coordinators working in the IX Health Region of Pernambuco. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and subjected to thematic content analysis.
Results: Three thematic categories emerged, condensing the main topics addressed by the participants: (1) "We don't stop to think about this; it's rare and difficult": actions aimed at people with disabilities; (2) "Specialized Rehabilitation Centers need to be opened": potential of the Care Network for People with Disabilities; and (3) "Recife is a long way away, isn't it?": limitations of the Care Network for People with Disabilities.
Conclusion: the health system in the IX Health Region perpetuates a fragmented and unequal care model, which reinforces the marginalization of people with disabilities.
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