Professional trajectory in the Family Health Strategy: focus on the contribution of specialization programs

This case study with a qualitative approach analyzes the professional trajectory of graduates from specialization programs in Family Health offered by the Family Health Center (FH-Center) in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil, between 2002 and 2004 identifies the contributions of this program to the performance of these professionals in the Family Health Strategy (FHS). The sample included 11 former students and data were collected through a questionnaire with semi-open questions from December 2007 to March 2008. The results revealed that six graduates no longer worked in the FHS and most of those still working in the FHS reported a low level of identification with the FHS. The program enabled changes in these professionals' daily practices, although some difficulties implementing the FHS principles into practice still remain. The conclusion is that the program positively impacted these professionals' trajectory, even though it represents a modality of training designed to complement knowledge and skills required by the FHS work.