YOUNG CAREGIVERS AND THE ROLE OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE: CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the role of Primary Health Care regarding families with young caregivers and how health professionals perceive this population following the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: this is an exploratory, qualitative study guided by Grounded Theory (Straussian perspective) and the theoretical framework of Complex Thought. A total of 31 individuals participated in the study, including young caregivers, families, and health professionals from a city in northwestern Paraná, Brazil. Data collection took place between August 2022 and October 2023. ATLAS.ti® software was used throughout the analytical process to organize the data. Results: the results revealed barriers limiting Primary Health Care’s interaction with these families, despite the acknowledged importance of including this population in service priorities. Although health professionals recognize the need to provide support, understanding, a welcoming environment, and guidance to families with young caregivers, such engagement is not a significant reality in the current health system. Thus, there is a highlighted need for professional training and the provision of institutional and psychosocial support for these young people in order to promote their social visibility and value the significant contribution they make to the care of family members. Conclusion: the invisibility of young caregivers, professional uncertainty, a scarcity of human and physical resources, and post-pandemic disorganization are factors limiting the effectiveness of Primary Health Care actions regarding recognition, monitoring, and support of families with young caregivers.