The powers of the Family Health teams include the development of a local plan, with community participation, considering the peculiarities and health needs in each territory. Through a case study with a qualitative approach, we analyzed the local planning process into three teams, located in different program areas of the municipality of Rio de Janeiro. The selection prioritized longer operation and stability in the composition of teams, considering the likelihood of greater internal integration and to their territories. All the professional teams and their regional supervisors participated. Data were collected through direct observation of meetings of teams and semi-structured interviews. We chose to approach content analysis with subject, using the theoretical categories of risk, vulnerability and participatory planning. The results showed a local planning process still in its infancy, no clear definition of common goals, criteria and underuse of recommended instruments, focused on regulatory trends and biological aspects. Among the suggestions for advancing the design, the highlights were the adequacy of physical space in health facilities, stable supply of raw materials, regulation of network services, including an administrative professional in every health unit actions and continuing education. It is understood that the formulation and implementation of methodologies and tools able to translate the basic guidelines of the Family Health Strategy and adapt to the peculiarities of each territory, with the strengthening of a culture of participatory planning is essential to show the integration and skilled labor in these teams.
Health Family Strategy; Health Planning; Communication in Health; Family Health Team; Primary Health Care