Conhecimentos e práticas associadas ao uso de tecnologias digitais em saúde: percepções de gerentes de unidades básicas de saúde do município de São Luís sobre saúde digital

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of Primary Health Care (PHC) and the incorporation of digital technologies in the health sector, promoting innovations that expand access, efficiency, and quality of services. Digital health has been fundamental in the digital transformation of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). This scenario requires that managers of Basic Health Units be prepared to integrate these resources into work processes, contributing to the continuous improvement of PHC and the promotion of health. However, the success of managing the incorporation of these technologies depends on specific training and knowledge of their use. Objective: To analyze the knowledge and practices related to the use of digital technologies in health among managers of Basic Health Units in the municipality of São Luís-MA. Material and Methods: This is a qualitative study, conducted in the municipality of São Luís, Maranhão, involving the managers of the Basic Health Units that are part of the municipal PHC network. The selection of participants was done by lottery, with nine managers from different health districts being chosen. Data were collected through individual interviews with open-ended questions, which were audio-recorded and subsequently transcribed in full. The structured interview covered 7 themes. After conducting the interviews, thematic content analysis was chosen, as proposed by Bardin. Results: The managers were predominantly female, with experience ranging from two months to three and a half years. They revealed a limited understanding of the concept of digital health, with use centered on official systems (such as PEC). This understanding is related to structural and institutional factors that guided the incorporation of digital technologies in primary health care. The main challenges identified include limitations in infrastructure and connectivity, weaknesses in technical support, training restricted to the use of systems, and initial resistance from the teams. Positive perceptions regarding the benefits of the technologies were also identified, associated with increased access, faster service, and user follow-up, as well as practical suggestions for improvements. Conclusion: Although the use of technologies such as PEC and Telenordeste is present in the daily routine of the units, the understanding of digital health is still limited and centered on operational functions. Furthermore, the main challenges involve technical failures, resistance from some teams, and a lack of comprehensive training. Despite this, managers demonstrated a willingness to innovate. In this context, strengthening digital health in primary health care requires investment in infrastructure, ongoing training, and active listening to local managers.