A comunicação em saúde aproximando trabalhadores da saúde e estudantes de medicina: Uma estratégia para o controle da dengue no Brasil

Abstract

Introduction: The way how Community Health Workers (CHW) receive training to manage epidemic is almost unknown. In this context, this project addresses the importance of bringing together medical students and CHW in order to strengthening continuing education of CHW. Objective: To promote the continuing education of CHW on dengue through the effective participation of medical students to develop communication skills of those involved. Method: The method adopted was the conduction of a focus group with six CHW in a primary health care centre in a mid-size town of Brazilian Midwest. The focus group was conducted by tutor and students previously trained on dengue prevention and management. Results: Students identified communicational gaps based on what was told by CHW as correct actions related to dengue control, allowing them to start developing action strategies. This approach not only contributed for continuing education of CHW but also became a effective transdisciplinary and interprofessional education opportunity for the students involved in the process. CHWs believed their communication strategies about dengue are effective and affordable, however the students detected communication failures and created opportunities to address these misconceptions. Students have already started developing strategies based on knowledge acquired on public health and experienced practices in medical school. Conclusion: We believe this project also offers a great importance for the development of students ‘communication skills and increase commitment and social accountability.