Impacto regional da implantação do Ambulatório Médico de Especialidades (AME) de Votuporanga na resolubilidade e qualidade do atendimento

Abstract

The search for new models and strategies for the improvement of public management of health services has been a subject of debate in Brazil since the establishment of SUS. Public-private partnerships are among the alternatives used in an attempt at greater efficiency in the implementation of public healthcare services. Objetives:The purpose of this research was to assess the regional impact of the establishment of Specialty Outpatient Clinics (AME) of Votuporanga considering: 1- resolution of outpatient procedures in the AME, and 2- user satisfaction of the Unified Health System (SUS) regarding the quality of health care provided by Specialty Outpatient Clinics. Casuistic and Methology: This research was carried out at the AME of Votuporanga, SP, from February to October 2008. The resolution of consultations and exams in the AME was evaluated using questionnaire applied to the municipal secretaries of health of 30 municipalities of the region of Votuporanga. User satisfaction regarding the quality of health care was assessed through questionnaire applied in the first consultation and recall. 5HVXOWV: In most municipalities (70%) there was decrease in the operational cost of patients in performance of consultations and exams in AME. The quantity of complaints after establishment of AME reduced in 93% of municipalities. The schedule of consultations and exams in the AME and other outpatient services was xiii done by 97% of the municipal secretaries of health. The degree of resolution of these outpatient procedures was higher in AME (97%) than in other services. Mean time in performance of consultations and exams in AME was 20.2 and 20.8 days, respectively. User satisfaction was high in the first consultation and recall with respect to waiting time between patient arrival and performance of medical consultation, reception, nursing and medical services, clearness and comfort of environment, and location of ombudsman. A slight reduction in user satisfaction was noted as the quantity of patients increased. Results: The regional impact of the establishment of Specialty Outpatient Clinics of Votuporanga was successful with positive indicators of efficiency and quality of care. There was improvement in the resolution of consultations and exams in the AME in relation to the other outpatient services. A high level of user satisfaction regarding the quality of care was verified.