ABSTRACT
Objective:
to look for an understanding through the co-substantiation between the concept of continuity of care and the theoretical reference of the symbolic interactionism, in the sense of adding a possibility to strengthen it as an indispensable concept to the care provided to the health system users and to incite a necessary reflection regarding this care.
Method:
a theoretical-reflective study, organized in four sections, about the continuity of care analyzed through the symbolic interactionism referential.
Results:
the symbolic interactionism intends to understand the human action in a group and believes that individuals act based on the meanings that the things have for them. This is a social construction that develops as people act and interact among themselves and with others. The continuity of care, seen from the relational, informational and management dimensions, is in line with the proposed, since it represents a social product that results from the interactions between those involved in care, which is expressed according to their action and reaction, as a constant for a set of practices of different professionals that intend to guarantee the comprehensive and coherent care to the user.
Conclusion:
this study has made it possible to present the continuity of care within the social interactions context, not as something concrete, but as a social object arising from the actions of each of those involved in care, although it is still possible to perceive the need to sensitize professionals and users about their meaning and intentionality in acting.
DESCRIPTORES:
Continuity of patient care; Comprehensive healthcare; Health management; Patient Care Team; Patient safety