Pharmacists in primary care: a qualitative study on the needs and possibilities of professional qualification for integrality of care to users-citizens

Abstract

Introduction: At the Basic Care healthcare units, in São Paulo, has been occurring, since 2006, the entry of pharmacists. In this new scenery, the qualifi cation for pharmaceutical services, has become fundamental. Objective: To understand the perceptions of the pharmacists responsible for coordinating Pharmaceutical Assistance - in the areas of Municipal Health Secretary of São Paulo and Social Organizations - about the development needs of pharmacists working in Basic Care. Method: A qualitative research approach was adopted. Semi structured interviews were performed with eleven professionals. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed following the thematic analysis technique. Results: Although the subjects recognize the need for pharmacists improvement, pointing diffi culty to effect the qualifi cation activities, given the complexity and intensity of routine professional units. The coordinated planning between instances of the Municipal Health and Social Organizations, stands out as one of the challenges for the realization of capabilities. Themes were appointed - on technical and interpersonal relationships in teams - to compose the educational processes. Final Remarks: The pharmacist’s identity as a health professional, in the context of Basic Care, is under construction. The increase in the number of professionals and harmonization of improvement activities according to the needs of working professionals can contribute to the improvement of health care users.