Desafios da gestão municipal para ampliação da telessaúde na atenção primária à saúde em Abreu e Lima-PE

Abstract

Telehealth can be understood as the set of health practices and services carried out with the support of Information and Communication Technologies to improve Primary Health Care actions. The objective of this study was to analyze the challenges for expanding telehealth by the management of the municipality of Abreu e Lima-PE. The research developed has a descriptive, cross-sectional, and quantitative character, carried out between July 2024 and February 2025, with three managers from the Municipal Health Department and 70 professionals working in Family Health Units. Data collection was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed the low implementation of telehealth services in the units, resulting in restricted coverage in the municipal territory, and a high level of professional ignorance about its existence. Insufficient training in the use of digital tools was also observed, as well as weaknesses related to technical support and the institutional organization of services. Despite these limitations, most participants recognize telehealth as a relevant tool for improving the quality of care, continuing education, and professional development. It is concluded that expanding telehealth in the municipality depends on strengthening management strategies, with investments in technological infrastructure, team training, and integration of health actions with the guidelines of the SUS Digital Program, in order to increase access and effectiveness in Primary Health Care