Self-Care and Autonomy: competencies of Primary Health Care professionals on health literacy
DOI: 10.22421/1517-7130/es.2026v27.e1131en
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22421/1517-7130/es.2026v27.e1131Keywords:
Health literacy, Primary health care , Professional competenceAbstract
The study investigates health literacy competencies among primary health care professionals in Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 88 professionals (84.6% of local physicians, pharmacists, and nurses). Results reveal a paradox: while 89.8% were unaware of the term and demonstrated moderate knowledge, self-assessment of skills and attitudes was high. Pharmacists underperformed compared to other categories. Professional experience correlated
positively with competence levels. Participants identified limited time and lack of management support as predominant structural barriers. The findings point to an empirical practice that, although relevant, requires formal training and intentionality for HL to become an emancipatory educational strategy and improve care quality
within the Unified Health System.
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