Evaluating the implementation of residency in family and community medicine in primary care

Abstract

Introduction: Family and community medicine (FCM) is the preferred specialty to be found in primary health care (PHC). The best form of training professionals for the specialty is medical residency, when at least 70% of the internship period is spent at this local. Thus, it is necessary evaluate the insertion quality of the residency in the PHC. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of implementation of medical residency programs in FCM in PHC. Method: Use of a tool developed to analyze the implementation of FCM residency in PHC in small (up to two second-year residents), medium (two to five) and large (from six) programs, evaluating from zero to four points, from unimplemented to fully implemented. The grades were based on interviews with residents, preceptors, coordinators, and municipal managers, considering the fourth-generation assessment with Bardin’s analysis of the speeches. Results: Six programs were evaluated, in municipalities with 20,000 to 12 million inhabitants, ranging from one to 22 second-year residents per program, ranging from unsatisfactory (one program) to fully implemented (two programs). Municipalities with greater PHC coverage showed better implementation results. The lowest scores were in the items “permanent education” and “continuing education” and the highest in the presence of FCM specialists as preceptors. There is a difference in perception between the interviewees considering the same questions. The study suggests that municipalities with greater investment in PHC also have better residency programs, regardless of whether they are linked to educational centers or health secretariats. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has also hindered health education. The results were also defined when different people were interviewed, demonstrating that the fourth-generation analysis is essential. Conclusion: It is necessary to observe the implementation of residency programs in PHC to ensure quality training, and not just quantity to provide care.