Critical Analysis of Health Indicators in Primary Health Care: A Brazilian Perspective

Abstract

This paper examines the importance of health indicators in the context of primary care, considering the evolution from the Declaration of Alma-Ata to the present, with a particular focus on the Unified Health System (SUS) in Brazil. The need for an intersectoral perspective in health management is highlighted, recognizing that health problems go beyond the mere treatment of diseases. It discusses how primary health care (PHC) acts as the first point of contact with the health system, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive and person-centered care. In addition, the challenges and advances in the implementation of public health indicators in the context of SUS are examined, highlighting the need for effective management and continuous evaluation of system performance. Obstacles related to decentralization and regionalization of health services are discussed, as well as the importance of community participation and empowerment in health promotion. In this regard, the relevance of close collaboration between academia and administration to develop effective strategies to improve the quality of health services is emphasized. This analysis underlines the importance of health indicators as fundamental tools to guide public policies, evaluate system performance, and guarantee equitable and universal access to quality health services.