HEALTH STRATEGY IN EAST TIMOR – QUALITATIVE DIAGNOSIS BASED ON THE SWOT METHODOLO

Objective: To diagnose the organization of community healthcare in East Timor based on the perceptions of health professionals and community representatives. Method: Qualitative and diagnostic study using SWOT analysis. Data collection was carried out between November 2023 and April 2024 through semi-structured interviews guided by six questions, applied to a convenience sample of 25 participants. The study was approved by the ethics committee of East Timor. Results: The analysis revealed weaknesses and threats in access to community health services. Strengths and opportunities were linked to broad health policies, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and improved communication among services. The need for community care reorganization was confirmed. Conclusion: Despite limited resources, professionals demonstrate strong commitment to their mission. Ethical community participation, especially in rural areas, presents a key opportunity for health promotion. International cooperation remains essential to strengthening East Timor’s healthcare system.