INTRODUCTION: Many experiences of successful incorporation of the physiotherapist in the Family Health Program have been published in the literature. However, some authors point out that unfamiliarity of the public about Physiotherapy is one of the factors that limit the role of these professionals in primary health care. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the knowledge of users of the Family Health Program about Physiotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative study. A questionnaire was given to 275 users of a Family Health Unit in Ribeirão Preto/SP. RESULTS: It was found that most interviewees had heard about physiotherapy and considered it is important. However, knowledge of the interviewees turned to aspects of rehabilitation and/or treatment, when referring: to the concept of Physiotherapy; indicate that people who need physiotherapy are disabled, suffering from injury and/or types of pain in musculoskeletal; that the physiotherapist works primarily in the hospital and did not realize educational activities. CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate a limited knowledge of the field of physiotherapy. This research shows a need for implementation of strategies aimed at further dissemination of the field of Physiotherapy.
Family health program; Knowledge; Physiotherapy; Population
