Acesso, acolhimento e a saúde dos homens na atenção primária à saúde

Abstract

Introduction: Men are seen as vulnerable in aspects related to health. In addition, the lack of evaluation of access to health services by the male public becomes an important factor of investigation. Thus, the objective of this research is to analyze access and care to men's health in Primary Health Care in the city of Caicó-RN. Materials and methods: This is an exploratory and descriptive research, with a quantitative and qualitative approach, carried out in the city of Caicó. Men aged 20 to 59 years were included, totaling a sample of 364 participants. The collection took place through a semi-structured instrument built by the researchers. Results: The participants' statements were grouped into the following categories: seek the service only when sick; to have access to prescription drugs and; to a lesser extent, for disease prevention and health promotion services. The men's basic health units were served in a welcoming environment by 90.9% of the participants, the participation of men in sexual and reproductive planning (8.2%) and in prenatal care (12.6%) is still very low. Discussion: A for the remedies for disease prevention and health promotion. Conclusions: It was possible to observe the difficulties in accessing and using the service of the Basic Health Units, even mentioned by few participants, making it possible to observe the work process and the organization of teams and functioning of the Basic Health Unit.