Health psychology is a field that has been rapidly expanding in Brazil and throughout the world. It has proven to be an area with many possibilities for psychologists, and working in hospitals is just one of the many opportunities available. A clear understanding of the current profile of psychologists who work in hospitals as well as of the theoretical and methodological approaches used in this context can contribute to the development of the field. This study aimed to conduct a survey of the professional profile of health psychologists who work at Brazilian hospitals. One hundred and twenty-five health psychologists working in general hospitals participated in this research. The Academic and Professional Research Survey was used as an instrument to get a descriptive overview of the current health psychologists. Overall results indicate that the majority of the sample (62.4%) was from the southeast region of Brazil. Furthermore, most of the participants were graduates in the field related to health (77.6%), worked in public hospitals (70.4%), used to participate in conferences and scientific events (88%), and worked at inpatient care settings (84%) and at outpatient clinics (60%). Emergency rooms (28%) still seem to lack the continuous care from these specific professionals. Concerning the population that these participants assisted, the majority of the professionals working at hospitals focus on treating patients (92.8%), their family (88%), and the hospital staff (64%). Based on this profile, it can be concluded that hospital psychology seems to be positively developing in Brazil, as it can be noted that the professionals are in search for qualification in the area. However, it is clear that advances are necessary, especially regarding the insertion of these professionals into the health unities in Brazil.
Behavioral Medicine; Psychologists; Health Education; Credentialing