VALUING FIRST-CONTACT ACCESS IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE: STRATEGIES TO STRENGTHEN THE CONCEPT

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze the relevance of first-contact access in Primary Health Care (PHC) and to discuss how this concept can be optimized through the main facilitation strategies, examining their positive impacts both on users and on the entire public health system. A narrative literature review of a bibliographic and non-systematic nature was conducted, seeking to identify and discuss the main strategies aimed at improving first-contact access. The findings highlight as effective strategies the extension of healthcare service operating hours, the implementation of triage systems, the incorporation of technologies, the strengthening of multiprofessional teams, health education initiatives, and the organization of healthcare schedules. After data analysis, it was concluded that these strategies constitute fundamental elements for the development of a more resolute, accessible, and patient-centered healthcare system. Continuous investment in these actions may strengthen Primary Health Care within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), contributing to better health outcomes and improvements in the population’s quality of life.