The role of primary attention in health on the constitution of the network care in mental health

Abstract

Objective: To characterize the mental health practices and care strategies developed by primary care teams in an urban area from Pesqueira/PE, Brazil. Methods: A descriptive exploratory study with a qualitative approach, developed through semi-structured interviews with health professionals and users of primary care network. Research protocol approved by CONEP with CAAE No 33110114.5.0000.5203. Results: Users with mental disorders and/or mental suffering are mainly attended in familiar and basic health units, and then referred to the Psychosocial Care Center (CAPS). Strategies and care practices in mental health vary according to the experience of each professional, and are centered on the medical consultation, prescription and medication control. Conclusion: Due to the recent implementation of CAPS, the psychosocial attention network of the municipality has structural and network problems between the different points of care, such as the difficulty of establishing a reference and counter-referralflow.