Pandemic: experiences of primary health care doctors and master’s degree students in family health

Abstract: Introduction: COVID-19 has brought numerous challenges for the Health System in Brazil. In Primary Health Care, these challenges add to those that already exist. Objective: To analyze the experience of facing the COVID-19 pandemic among doctors of the Mais Médicos Brasil Program and master’s degree students in Family Health and those working in Primary Health Care. Methods: Qualitative study involving eight doctors from Primary Health Care in Alagoas who are also studying the professional master’s degree in Family Health (PROFSAÚDE). Five questions were developed, the answers to which were analyzed based on Content Analysis theory. Results: Three categories and four subcategories were observed: Category 1 - Study and work process (Subcategory 1.1- Characteristics of PROFSAÚDE; Subcategory 1.2 - Personal strategies developed); Category 2 - Challenges in Life Management (Subcategory 2.1 - Changes in daily life; Subcategory 2.2 - Impact on emotions) and Category 3 - Personal and Professional Growth. Conclusion: During the pandemic, medical professionals experience complex and dynamic situations due to a dual and cumulative process - working in PHC and studying for their master’s degree. Despite all the difficulties faced, the master’s degree allowed them to improve skills in dealing with critical situations.