Limits and possibilities of working with groups within the family health strategy

Abstract

This qualitative study was based on Madeleine Leininger's theory of Culture Care Diversity and Universality. It was carried out in eight basic health care units within a sanitary district of Belo Horizonte-MG. The study aimed to discuss the limits and possibilities of working with groups of diabetic and hypertensive patients within the Family Health Strategy. Nineteen professionals coordinated the groups in the Family Health teams. The results showed that, actually, there are still theoretical and methodological limits for such coordination as well as lack of knowledge to handling situations in which coordinators face difficulties in dealing with human feelings and interactions that emerge from the group. The teams' health professionals' turnover also shows those limits, making it difficult to establish links and accomplish health care. The unregulated demand compromises daily activities of the group, another problem regarding this kind of work. Informants pointed out the need of theory training as a means of improving group coordination, a possibility to respond to the challenges of the demands. It also shows the possibility that informants look for external help in order to keep on with collective educational activities. The search for partnerships has also turned into a cultural activity.