OBJECTIVES: to analyze the continuity of care for diabetic adolescents in health services in Recife, from the perspective of patients and professionals involved with the care. METHODS: a descriptive qualitative study. 27 interviews were conducted with the mothers of adolescents and a variety of health professionals responsible for different levels of care. The data was reviewed through narrative content analysis. RESULTS: in terms of health care administration, the interviewees understood the goals and treatments of the specialized health care professionals involved, however they were not informed of general treatment plans or protocols. Concerning the information provided, some interviewees reported communicating directly with health care specialists; however, there was no communication with those responsible for primary care. The great demand for service and long wait times for the delivery of results are among the main barriers to the dissemination of information. Finally, concerning the relationship, all the mothers maintained that they trusted and shared an important bond with the health care professionals. CONCLUSIONS: the continuity of care is perceived to be greater in medium to highly complex health care services. These findings may be related to the qualifications of the professionals and better infrastructure of specialized services, indicating the necessity of increasing the investment in primary care and its coordination.
Continuity of patient care; Adolescent; Diabetes mellitus
