Interprofessionality and matrix support in primary health care: advances and challenges in the field of mental health

Abstract

The article aims to analyze interprofessionality and matrix support in Primary Health Care (PHC), with an emphasis on the field of mental health, before and after the defunding of the Family Health Support Center (NASF) and the creation of the Primary Care Multiprofessional Teams (eMulti). This is a qualitative study based on a case study conducted in six health units in peripheral territories of São Paulo, using document analysis, participant observation, and interviews with key informants. Data were collected at two distinct moments: 2016 and 2021. The results highlight the importance of interprofessionality and matrix support, particularly
for comprehensive mental health care and intersectoral or psychosocial care network coordination. The study also points out the challenges faced by professionals, such as emotional overload and the disintegration of collective spaces. Moreover, in the post pandemic context, given the increasing demand for mental health care among both the population and healthcare workers, the reinstatement of these interprofessional spaces is deemed necessary. Thus, the study concludes by emphasizing the significance of interprofessionality and continuing health education for enhancing interprofessional work. It underscores the urgent need to strengthen spaces for discussion and coordination among teams to ensure a care model based on comprehensive clinical practice, shared responsibility, and patient-centered care.