Belo Horizonte Local Health Conferences: dynamics, effectiveness and contributions to the Municipal Health Plan

ABSTRACT The objective of the study is to analyze the dynamics and effectiveness of Local Health Conferences (CLS), which took place in Basic Health Units. The study was conducted at the 12ª Municipal Health Conference, in October 2013. We used the techniques of participant observation research and document analysis. It was found that the CLS are held open door, without the need of a predetermined number of participants. In addition, everyone is entitled to voice and vote. The study concludes that the CLS are effective, since it allows the discussion of health needs by users, workers and managers in primary health, legitimizing political decisions, and ensuring the right to health.