Integration devices of the mental health care network: the experience of Serviço de Saúde Dr. Cândido Ferreira

Abstract

The aim of this article is to discuss the integration devices of a mental health care network, in light of the experience developed at Serviço de Saúde (Health Service) Dr. Cândido Ferreira (SSCF), situated in Campinas, state of São Paulo. The article presents the way in which the theme of the health network integration is configured as a point of discussion in the context of the Brazilian Psychiatric Reform and of the institutionalization of Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS - National Health System). The article approaches the relevance of the implementation of an inter- and intra-sectoral services network, together with a change in the work processes, especially with the insertion of referral teams and professionals, aiming to guarantee the maintenance of bonds and the continuity of assistance in different assistance levels. The relation between the macro- and micro-political levels is discussed, as well as the need to create devices to integrate the assistance network; such devices should complement the referral and counter-referral mechanism that is traditionally professed by SUS.