Evaluation of the implementation of the Care Network for People with Disabilities in the Brazilian Unified National Health System: a multiple case study

Abstract:

The Care Network for People with Disabilities (RCPCD) was implemented in 2012 as a consequence of the actions of the Viver sem Limite (Living without Limits) plan and has been the research object of recent studies. However, no published studies address the degree of implementation of this network. This study aimed to evaluate the degree of implementation of the RCPCD in eight states in the five regions of Brazil. This multiple case study performed evaluative research of the degree of implementation of the RCPCD in the states of Amazonas, Bahia, Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraíba, Rio Grande do Sul, and São Paulo. A logical model of the policy and a measurement matrix were developed. The degree of implementation of seven states was moderate, but Amazonas had an incipient degree of implementation. The evaluation of each stage of the process showed important differences, as the regional diagnosis and network adhesion stages presented moderate to advanced degrees of implementation in most states. In the service contracting stage, no state had an advanced degree of implementation, and the stage of follow-up and monitoring of the RCPCD was not even reached. The measurement matrix helps evaluate the degree of implementation of the RCPCD, and, by recognizing its results, the state steering groups and technical area recommend its use. Actions to improve this implementation, such as strengthening regionalization, establishing regional steering groups, ensuring contracting mechanisms, and defining criteria for certification of the care points, are necessary.

Keywords:
Disabled Persons; Health Evaluation; Health Policy