PERCEPÇÕES E MOTIVOS DA POPULAÇÃO NA PROCURA PELA UPA DE PATOS DE MINAS/MG: Entre Conveniência, Imediatismo e a Realidade do Atendimento

The increasing demand of the population for Emergency Care Units (UPAs) is a relevant phenomenon in health management, especially in light of service overload and the inappropriate use of emergency services for conditions that could be resolved in primary care. This study aimed to analyze the reasons that lead patients to seek care at the UPA in Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais, as well as to understand their perception of their own health, the care provided by the nursing team, and the subjective resources mobilized during hospitalization. This is a qualitative study conducted with 22 hospitalized patients in the emergency and inpatient sectors, aged between 20 and 80 years, of both genders. The interviews were recorded with prior consent and analyzed using Iramuteq® software, employing Descending Hierarchical Classification (DHC), Similarity Analysis (SA), and Frequency Analysis techniques. The results show that severe physical pain is the main factor associated with seeking care, reinforcing both the immediatist tendencies of the local culture and the perception of higher resoluteness at UPAs compared to Basic Health Units (UBSs). The role of the nurse emerged as central to care, especially due to the direct bond formed with patients. Spirituality was mentioned as a significant emotional coping strategy in the face of illness and diagnostic uncertainty. It is concluded that many cases could be redirected to primary care and that welcoming and active listening are key elements for more humanized healthcare.