<b>The community health agent (ACS) and the community: perceptions regarding the ACS work</b> - doi: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v9i2.11234

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the perceptions of Community Healter Agent and the community about ACS’s work. This is a qualitative research, performed in Marília, SP-Brazil. Six ACS and 18 members of the community participated in the study. Thematic content analysis was used in the analysis. ACS indentified the main strengths of their work: personal development acquired in the profession; care offered to families; bonding with the community and the resoluteness of the problems of the community. ACS also identified weaknesses such as carrying our services which are not their task; number of families higher than what is recommended, excessive bureaucracy and lack of training. The community who receive care from the ACS manifested gratitude and satisfaction with their work, however, some of them affirmed the home visits performed by the ACS are quick and highlighted the lack of professionals which leads to high time gap between visits. The work of the ACS can potentially strength the Family Health Strategy, however, it should be improved in face of the fragilities highlighted in the perceptions of the community and the ACS themselves.