Coordenação do cuidado pela Atenção Primária à Saúde na atenção às pessoas com doenças crônicas

Objective: to analyze the role of Primary Care (PC) in care coordination within the healthcare network for individuals with chronic diseases. Methods: This qualitative study involved managers and healthcare providers working in PC across two health regions in the state of Espirito Santo,Brazil. Data were collected between June 2020 and June 2021 through semi-structured interviews conducted individually via video call applications. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, aligned with relevant literature on the subject. Results: Participants highlighted challenges in developing care coordination across all pillars of this attribute (clinical coordination,administrative/organizational coordination, information coordination). These challenges were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: The role of PC in coordinating care for individuals with chronic diseases remains fragile, significantly impacting the delivery of continuous and comprehensive care that meets the actual needs of users.