Potentials and limits in home care shared between teams

A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: to apprehend how professionals working in Primary Health Care (PHC) and Home Care Service (HCS) perceive the potentialities and limitations of shared care. Method: descriptive exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, based on the theoretical assumptions of the Health Care Network (HCN), carried out with 10 healthcare professionals working in one of the capitals of a state in Brazil. Data were collected in October 2019 through a single focus group session, at which time, based on the construction of the SWOT matrix (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that permeate shared care in home care. Data were submitted to content analysis, thematic modality. Results: as potentials, the following were highlighted: the care actions carried out jointly by the different professionals of the teams; conducting objective and targeted meetings; the division of responsibilities and the definition of roles; and the flows that can improve communication between teams and enhance the practice of shared care in home care. As limitations, the following stand out: insufficient knowledge of the eligibility criteria for home care; the deficiency of material resources and information technology; and gaps in professional training. Conclusion: the results can contribute to the qualification of care among the different services that make up the Health Care Network, especially by identifying elements related to the work process itself that influence shared care.