THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE (PHC) IN THE PROMOTION OF COLLECTIVE HEALTH

Abstract

The research aimed to analyze the importance of Primary Health Care (PHC) in the promotion of collective health in Brazil, highlighting its contributions, challenges and potentialities within the context of the Unified Health System (SUS). The methodology used was a bibliographic research, which involved the review of articles, books and official documents on PHC and public health. The results showed that PHC, by prioritizing prevention, health promotion, and universal and equitable access to care, plays a crucial role in improving the health conditions of the population, especially the most vulnerable. In addition, PHC contributes to the reduction of social inequalities and to the integration of care between the different levels of the SUS. However, the survey also revealed significant challenges, such as lack of resources, regional inequality in access to services, and a shortage of professionals in some areas, which still limit the effectiveness of PHC in some regions of the country. The conclusion indicated that, although there are obstacles to be overcome, PHC has enormous potential to transform the health model, promoting a fairer and more efficient system, especially when there are adequate investments, continuous training of professionals, and strengthening of public health policies. The survey reinforces the importance of continuing to improve PHC to achieve a more inclusive and equitable health system.