The Practical Approach to Care Kit (PACK) training programme implementation in a city in South of Brazil

Article type
Authors
Ferreira Teixeira I1, do Nascimento Ponce S1, Kreis J1, Paim Brasil V1, Bley Jacob G1, Melchior F1, ZONTA R1, Perini F1
1Municipal Health Department of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, Florianopolis , Santa Catarina, Brazil
Abstract
Background: The Practical Approach to Care Kit (PACK) is an evidence-informed approach for primary care (PC) in South Africa, localized for countries like Brazil. The PACK guide simplifies and standardizes PC while strengthening healthcare systems through facility-based training. Adapted for Florianopolis, Brazil, it aims to reform and expand PC services, promoting accessibility and equity.
Methods: The PACK training employs a cascade model with regular training sessions (TS) led by health workers trained as Facility Trainers (FT). The goal is to familiarize family physicians and nurses with the PACK guide. Recently, a blended training strategy (BTS) integrating a virtual platform was introduced to the TS. Despite a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, TS resumed in 2023 in Florianopolis, incorporating the implementation of BTS. To evaluate the resumption and BTS implementation, a cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving FT and trainees. A structured questionnaire, employing a 5-point Likert scale (from totally disagree to totally agree), covered five domains: General Aspects of Training (GAT); Organization and Structure of Training (OST); Aspects Related to Blended Training Strategy (ARB); Impact of Training on Clinical Practice (ITC); Participation and Motivation with Training (PMT).
Results: Results revealed 93 responses, with 32% from FT and 68% from trainees. GAT domain scored a mean of 4.68. OST domain had a mean response of 4.70, highlighting well-preparedness of Facility Trainers. ARB domain scored 4.53, with the question on BTS validity receiving the highest rating. ITC domain had a mean response of 4.79, emphasizing the PACK guide's contribution to clinical practice. PMT domain scored 4.68, with commitment to and participation in TS receiving the highest rating.
Conclusion: PACK intends to enhance PC, especially in Florianopolis, Brazil. Its adaptation for this region, along with the introduction of a BTS, reflects a commitment to advancing and expanding PC services. The survey results indicate positive feedback across various domains, emphasizing the well-preparedness of FT and the perceived validity of the BTS. Despite a pandemic-induced hiatus, the resumption of TS underscores the resilience and adaptability of the PACK program. These findings highlight the valuable contributions of PACK in promoting accessible, equitable and high-quality PC.