The scope of this study was to understand the perceptions and feelings of physicians dealing with tuberculosis (TB) in Rio de Janeiro. Eleven physicians working in a large public hospital were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The interpretation of the interviews was based on hermeneutic-dialectic phenomenology. The answers were analyzed in order to identify and understand their live TB-related experiences from their statements. Among the categories that emerged, neglect was chosen as the focus of this article in its four dimensions: respect, responsibility, conditions of care and discomfort. The boomerang effect of neglect was perceived during interviews with physicians: the one who neglects is also neglected. Other reported feelings included lack of motivation, anger, and frustration. The mental health of physicians is a preoccupation because of overwork in inadequate conditions. The question that arises is how health staff working in such environments can adequately care for their patients. We conclude that in order to achieve TB control as well as other health system goals, human resource policies that respond to physicians' job needs should be implemented.
Health policy; Working conditions; Professional burnout; Delivery of health care; Tuberculosis