REDE DE ASSISTÊNCIA À SAÚDE DA CRIANÇA AUTISTA SOB A ÓTICA DAS MÃES

Abstract

: Objective: To evaluate the perception of the mothers of children with autism about the integral health care network of their children. Methodology: This is a descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional study whose sample was formed by mothers of children with autism treated at the Associação de Pais e Amigos do Excepcionais (APAE) of the city of Petrolina-PE. A semi-structured questionnaire was sent to the mothers,

containing questions about personal data and information on access to health services, which included evaluation, intervention, follow-up in the home and educational context. Results: there was a high prevalence of mothers residing in surrounding cities, with transportation difficulties to reach the health services and in the scheduling of consultations in the Basic Health Units, was observed. Regarding the follow-up of their child by health professionals, this age performed mainly by neurologists and speech therapists, and in a smaller number by physiotherapists and nutritionists. Conclusion: Some of the weaknesses in the health care of these children were detected, such as difficulties in accessing health services, as well as some potentialities, evidenced by the good reception of professionals who provide assistance to families.