O universo masculino no domicílio: a visão dos homens acerca do Programa Melhor em Casa

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the perception of male users of a home care service (Programa Melhor em Casa, PMC) provided by the Unified Health System (SUS) in Brazil regarding the fulfilment of their health needs. METHOD: The present observational and descriptive study, with qualitative design, was performed with men registered with PMC in Cuité, a municipality located in the state of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil. Ten of 19 men registered with PMC in Cuité were interviewed. Data collection was based on a semi-structured interview with participants. Results were analyzed using Bardin's content analysis of thematic categories. RESULTS: Three thematic categories were identified: knowledge of participants regarding the health problem for which they were receiving home care; masculine perception regarding the health needs in the home; and perception of participants regarding the advantages of home care. The results showed that the men interviewed were unaware of many important aspects of their health condition, such as the reason for their inclusion in a home care program. Regarding the advantages of PMC, participants mentioned the quick response by health care workers, the avoidance of long waiting lines that are usual in public health care services, and the comfort of the home. CONCLUSIONS: The acceptance and satisfaction of users with PMC was remarkable. However, a high level of unawareness regarding the participants' own health needs was observed. Additional studies are required to broaden the discussion regarding home care.