<b>Reference and counter reference: contribution to integrality in health</b> - DOI: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v7i1.4908

Abstract

One of the multiple meanings of integrality can be carried out through the reference and counter reference systems, monitored by means of follow-up and evaluation. The object of this study is the possibility of contributing for advancements regarding the reference and counter reference process of the Brazilian health system and the objective of analyzing the technical and assisting model implanted in a hospital institution and named “special patient discharges”. The methodology comprised the analysis of documents and registers of the patients records, made available by the health institution, the site of the research. The data were systematized, organized into tables and graphic charts, and then interpreted. The “special patient discharges” program was implemented in June 2003. The time framework analyzed for this article (January to October 2005) involved 123 (one hundred twenty-three) patients and their families. 110 (89%) out of them presented need of counter reference while 13 (11%) showed no need (patients who remained hospitalized for social reasons). The outcomes show as beneficial consequences: humanization, maintaining the link between the patient, the family and the health system; reduction in patient admittance time and exposure to complications arising from it; higher provision of hospital beds and decrease in costs.