Implementation of family and community medicine residency in primary care: use of the implementation analysis tool in state of São Paulo

Abstract

Introduction: Family and community medicine (FCM) is the preferred specialty to be present in the main gateway to health systems, primary health care (PHC). The best way to increase this specialty is the medical residency, in which at least 70% of the internship period is in the PHC. Thus, the quality of implantation of residency in the PHC is essential. Objectives: Evaluate the quality of implementation of medical residency programs in FCM in PHC. Method: Use of a tool developed to analyze the implementation of FCM residency in PHC in small (up to two second-year residents), medium (two to five) and large (from six) programs, evaluating from zero to four points , between not implanted and fully implanted. The grades were obtained from interviews with residents, preceptors, coordinators and municipal managers, considering the fourth generation assessment. Results: Six programs were evaluated, in municipalities with 20,000 to 700,000 inhabitants, ranging from one to 22 second-year residents, ranging from unsatisfactory (one program) to fully implemented (two programs). Municipalities with greater PHC coverage showed greater implementation results. The lowest scores were in the items “permanent education” and “continuing education” and the highest in the presence of FCM specialists as preceptors. There is a difference in perception among respondents considering the same areas. Discussion: The study suggests that municipalities with greater investment in PHC also have better residency programs, regardless of whether the link is with educational centers or health departments. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has also hampered health education. The results were also defining when interviewing different people, demonstrating that this methodology is essential. Conclusion: There is a need to observe the implementation of residency programs in PHC to ensure quality training, and not just quantity to provide.