This article presents partial results of evaluative research conducted in 2005 at a Psychosocial Care Center in Pelotas, in the Southern Brazilian State of Rio Grande do Sul. The study adopts a qualitative approach and utilizes the theoretical and methodological referential of the Fourth Generation Evaluation. The data collected contains observation and interviews with users, family members and professionals of the care center. The analysis was based on the Constant Comparative Method that made the definition of the thematic nuclei possible. One of them refers to the dimensions of the scope of work broken down into issues related to integrality, to old and new chronicities, to dealing with crises and to family involvement. Considering the inclusion of groups directly involved with the daily routine services, relevant issues have emerged from the evaluation in a context of change in the model of mental healthcare.
Mental health; Mental healthcare services; Evaluation of healthcare services