Perception of oral health coordinators and dental surgeons who work in the public service about the National Health System (SUS)

Abstract

The health professional is a key element for the implementation of Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS - National Health System). As it executes its function, this system goes from the theoretical and conceptual aspect to the care practice. The aim of this study was to verify the knowledge level about the National Health System (SUS) of the oral health coordinators and dental surgeons working in the public service of the forty cities located in the northwest region of the State of São Paulo. The study used a structured, self-administered questionnaire with questions about the National Health System's doctrinal and organizational principles, social control, financing, human resources education, health care and assistance. Among the interviewees, 77 (89.5%) did not know who was responsible for the planning and execution of assistance, 53 (61.6%) did not have knowledge about equity, 46 (53.5%) about health capital and 45 (52.3%) about social control. The conclusion was that there is lack of knowledge regarding some subjects; therefore, it is necessary to offer courses about the philosophy of the National Health System (SUS).