Conditions of access to gynecological attention in primary services: users 'perspective

Abstract

Aim: to analyze the conditions of access to gynecological services in the primary care network, considering the users’ perspective. Method: exploratory-descriptive, qualitative study carried out in two municipalities, with 22 women who underwent gynecological consultation. Data collection was carried out from August 2013 to April 2014. The data were submitted to thematic content analysis. Results: in both municipalities there are weaknesses in the promotion of access to gynecological care and to integral attention to women's health. The users who seek gynecological consultations are conducted through the health care network according to flows previously agreed upon by the managers. The followed itineraries are therefore not necessarily the result of personal choices, which may limit the efficiency of the responses to the users' demands. Conclusion: regarding the gynecological offers, it was evidenced that the users can access some technologies of care, such as the gynecological consultation and the procedures that constitute it.