Committing to Continuity: Primary Care Practices During COVID-19 in an Urban Brazilian Neighborhood

• Authors: Emily S Pingel, Emory University; Alexandra Llovet, Emory University; Fernando Cosentino, UBS Bom Retiro Octávio Augusto Rodovalho; Jeffrey Lesser, Emory University
• Journal Title: HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR
• Publisher: SAGE Publications | 2020-12-16
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1177/1090198120979609
• Subjects: Sociology, General
• Keywords: community health promotion; emergency; neighborhood; primary care; risk and crisis communication; urban health

Abstract

Decreased engagement in preventive services, including vaccination, during the COVID-19 pandemic represents a grave threat to global health. We use the case of the Bom Retiro Public Health Clinic in São Paulo, Brazil, to underscore how continuity of care is not only feasible, but a crucial part of health as a human right. The long-standing relationship between the clinic and neighborhood residents has facilitated ongoing management of physical and mental health conditions. Furthermore, we demonstrate how the clinic’s history of confronting infectious diseases has equipped it to adapt preventive services to meet patients’ needs during the pandemic. Our academic–community partnership used a multidisciplinary approach, relying on analysis of historical data, ethnographic data, and direct clinical experience. We identify specific prevention strategies alongside areas for improvement. We conclude that the clinic serves as a model for continuity of care in urban settings during a pandemic.