It is a qualitative study aiming at knowing the concept of health needs according to the user´s perceptions of any health service in São Paulo. 15 interviews were conducted through semistructured script, in December, 2008. A thorough reading of the material led to the gather elements that make up the classification based on the Taxonomy Needs. The health needs were related to the presence of employment, housing and sanitation conditions and access to medical appointments, medication and laboratory tests. It also recognized the need related to the bond between the user and the health care team, it manifested as a desire of gentle care and greater availability of time. We stress the need for tools that assist the professional in the field of Public Health to identify the health needs of users, which are not limited to the biological field.
Health services needs and demand; User embracement; Primary Health Care