[Children's chronic disease:family needs and their relationship with the family health strategy]

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to learn the perception that families of children with a chronic disease make of their relationships with the Family Health Unit (FHU). This qualitative study was performed using symbolic interactionism as the theoretical ground and narrative inquiry as the method. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with seven families of children with chronic disease, enrolled in the FHU of a region with high social vulnerability, in Sdo Paulo state, Brazil. Results showed that the family's relationship with the FHU is influenced by elements from their experience and trajectory, and that their experience as a family of a child with a chronic disease is strongly marked by their relationship with the health care services. This has great influence on the responses of the family, thus requiring a systematic and committed engagement of the health system in relieving their suffering, beyond merely treating the disease.