Primary care in Amazonas: provision, fixation and professional profile in contexts of difficult access

Abstract The research aimed to analyze the profile of professionals working in primary care in municipalities in Amazonas and the relationship with provision and fixation in these places. It was an analytical, descriptive study, of a quantitative nature, carried out from 2014 to 2016. Data from doctors, nurses and dentists working in primary care in twenty municipalities in Amazonas (Brazil) were analyzed, totaling 397 professionals. Medical professionals are less fixated, have less relatives, local residency and belong to other locations. Nursing professionals have more specializations and management functions. The health regions of Juruá, Triângulo, Madeira and the surroundings of Manaus have fewer professionals in primary care. The municipalities of Parintins, Itacoatiara and Tabatinga have a larger population outside the capital and have a greater number of professionals. There is a tendency for professionals to seek work in capitals and cities with a greater offer of services to carry out their health activities. In turn, municipalities with difficult access face a greater challenge to promote the establishment and provision of health professionals.