The objective of this study was to explore the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy through the perceptions of the health managers and facilitators of strategy. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Fourteen interviews were carried out, eight in the State of Ceará-Brazil and six in Peru, between May and June 2011. In general, participants expressed a positive perception of the IMCI strategy. Also was observed the predominance of the clinical component, compared with the community or the health services component. In Peru unlike Brazil, the government promoted the adoption of the strategy. In conclusion, this study shows a complex intervention of the IMCI strategy, with a predominance of the clinical component, evidencing the limitations in the integration of the components of the strategy.
Integrated management of childhood illness; Qualitative research; Child health; Brazil; Peru