Doença falciforme como desafio da gestão pública em saúde no contexto de Ribeirão das Neves

Abstract

The aim of this article is to analyze public policies aimed at people with sickle cell disease in the municipality of Ribeirão das Neves, with an emphasis on the perception and level of knowledge of health professionals in the municipal network on the subject. The research adopted a mixed approach, combining documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews with the state representative for sickle cell disease in Minas Gerais and a questionnaire administered to 98 municipal employees. The data obtained revealed significant gaps in the monitoring of cases, with significant underreporting, since only patients identified by the National Neonatal Screening Program are officially counted. There were deficiencies in knowledge about the pathology, in emergency care capacity, in integration between services and in the structural conditions of the network. In addition, the high turnover of health professionals reinforces the need for continuing education, the development of specific care protocols and better communication between sectors. The study highlights the importance of public management committed to regional development and comprehensive care for the vulnerable population, emphasizing the urgency of intersectoral actions that promote equity in access to health services.