Health care for Family Health Strategy in the northeast sea and hinterland territories

Health care in rural areas

Abstract

Objective: To identify the health practices carried out by family health team professionals working in rural and water territories. Method: This was a qualitative exploratory study, using thematic analysis to process and interpret the empirical material. A total of 29 semi-structured interviews were conducted with Family Health Strategy professionals from the municipalities of Apodi-RN,
Fortim-CE, Icapuí-CE, Novo Oriente-CE, from June to August 2019. Results: The endemic disease control agents proved to be involved beyond surveillance and zoonosis control, and should be considered mandatory in Family Health Strategy teams in this territory. Professionals’ actions involving environmental and workers’ health remain focused on the care axis, but should
include health promotion, prevention and education, with a view to equity and comprehensive care. Conclusion: The way of life
of the rural and water population, with a health-environment-work link, should be the guiding principle in all health care practices carried out by rural Family Health Strategy professionalsm, and still, the possibility of expanding the number of professionals rural should be considered.