Análise situacional para implementação do cuidado farmacêutico na atenção primária à saúde do município de João Pessoa – PB

Abstract

Introduction: The role of the pharmacist in Primary Health Care (PHC) has been strengthened by recent regulations that expand this professional’s role in direct patient care, particularly within the Unified Health System (SUS). Focused on health promotion and the rational use of medications, the implementation of pharmaceutical care services is essential to improve the quality of healthcare and reduce morbidity and mortality associated with medications. In João Pessoa, there is a need for the qualification and implementation of Pharmaceutical Care services in Primary Health Care, given their importance for comprehensive care. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the current situation concerning the profile, structure, and work processes of pharmacists, the services developed, and the expectations, challenges, and positive aspects from the professionals’ perspective. Objective: This study aims to perform a situational analysis of Pharmaceutical Care services in the PHC of João Pessoa to evaluate the structure, profile of pharmacists, and services offered, seeking to identify opportunities and challenges for the implementation of clinical services provided by pharmacists. Methodology: An online questionnaire was used, targeting pharmacists working in the USFs of João Pessoa. The questions addressed service organization, available structure, work processes, pharmacists' collaborative practices, challenges, and positive aspects, providing a detailed view of Pharmaceutical Assistance in the municipality. Results and Discussion: The study revealed significant structural and operational factors influencing the implementation of Pharmaceutical Care services in the USFs of João Pessoa. Among the 29 pharmacists interviewed, a substantial portion reported an overload of administrative and logistical tasks, which limits their ability to provide direct patient care. Regarding infrastructure, it was observed that many USFs lack dedicated pharmacy consulting rooms, impacting patient privacy and care quality. Additionally, the lack of technological resources, such as computers and clinical record systems, hinders detailed patient follow-up and the documentation of issues and pharmaceutical interventions, both essential for continuity of care. Data also indicated an institutional support gap, such as ongoing training programs and incentives for pharmacists to expand their clinical role in collaboration with other health teams. The lack of integration between pharmacists and other PHC professionals complicates the development of a collaborative model necessary for the comprehensive management of chronic conditions in patients. Despite these limitations, pharmacists expressed interest in expanding their clinical practices and contributing to strengthening PHC. This scenario underscores the importance of local policies that invest in infrastructure and encourage interprofessional integration so that pharmacists can fully exercise their role in the PHC context and contribute to improved health outcomes and quality of life for the population. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for systematic investment in structure, training, and human resource organization within the USFs of João Pessoa. Such advancements are essential to overcome identified barriers and enable the effective implementation of Pharmaceutical Care services, ensuring more comprehensive and resolutive care for the population, in alignment with SUS guidelines and the National Policies on Pharmaceutical Assistance and Basic Health Care.