ACCESS TO ULTRASOUND EXAM: the reality of ultrasound in the city of Pelotas

Abstract

Introduction: Ultrasound (US) is a widely used exam in medical practice, being used to screen numerous pathologies, in routine gynecological exams, to monitor fetal development during pregnancy, among others. Although this exam is highly requested by medical professionals, its access is not yet facilitated through the Unified Health System (SUS), as the waiting time for the user to be able to schedule and perform the exam is long. Objective: This article aims to carry out an analysis of the flow of outpatient access to ultrasound exams in the city of Pelotas-RS in 2022, addressing the main obstacles encountered in carrying out the exam by users of the health system and service providers. Methods: The functioning of the health system in relation to access to ultrasound examinations in the city of Pelotas was evaluated through data collected in hospitals that meet the demand for this service via SUS, and also in the Municipal Health Department. interviews with professionals involved in the process of carrying out this type of exam by the SUS in the municipality. Results: It was evaluated how contact is made with users to schedule and confirm exams and also analyzed the discrepancy between the supply of ultrasound per year recommended by the Ministry of Health and the real quantity offered to Pelotas and others 23 cities, resulting in a long waiting list for exams and their consequences. Conclusions: Despite being an exam of great importance for screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of various diseases, access to US exams by SUS users in the city of Pelotas is still very limited. Therefore, in order to minimize the impact on the waiting list, the availability of professionals trained to carry it out must be increased, as well as increasing the amount of US equipment in the city of Pelotas.