Avaliação do nível de conhecimento dos profissionais de saúde sobre as práticas na atenção à saúde de pessoas com deficiência na Atenção Primária à Saúde

Abstract

Introduction: According to the 2022 Continuous National Household Sample Survey (PNAD), the Brazilian population with disabilities is estimated at 18.6 million people, with a growth trend due to demographic changes such as population aging and the increase in chronic diseases. This significant segment of society is protected by Law No. 13,146/2015, which established the Statute for Persons with Disabilities, defining them as individuals with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments that, in interaction with barriers, may hinder their full and equal participation in society. Primary Health Care (PHC) is essential for promoting, preventing, and providing continuous health care for the entire population, ensuring universal access. However, several barriers persist, perpetuating inequalities in care and hindering the effective inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWD) in the health system. Objective: To evaluate the physical, structural, and communication accessibility conditions, as well as the practices, knowledge, and care strategies in health units imed at persons with disabilities (PWD). Methodology: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, conducted through the application of a questionnaire to physicians and nurses working in the Family Health Strategy (FHS) in the Southwest Health Region of the Federal District (DF), Brazil. The study was carried out between September 23, 2024, and November 30, 2024, following approval by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Among the 60 health professionals who responded to the questionnaire, only 14 reported having received any content or coursework related to PWD health care during their undergraduate studies, and nine completed a Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) course. Of these, six were during their undergraduate studies and only one was offered through the Unified Health System (SUS). The average adherence to the instrument's items was 36.2 ± 12.8%, and all domains showed average adherence below 50%. The "Communication" domain showed the lowest adherence. Conclusion: The study highlights that, although significant progress has been made in guaranteeing the right to health for persons with disabilities, important gaps remain that undermine the universality and comprehensiveness of primary health care services. Physical and communication accessibility, professional qualification, and the inclusion of persons with disabilities in health policy planning remain central challenges.