IMPLEMENTATION OF A REFERENCE CLINIC FOR THE TREATMENT OF CONGENITAL CLUBFOOT USING THE PONSETI METHOD: A QUALITATIVE STUDY, AMAPÁ, 2024

Abstract

Objective: To understand the experiences and perspectives of family members regarding the treatment of congenital clubfoot using the Ponseti method, in the context of the implementation of a public reference clinic in the state of Amapá. Methods: A qualitative study conducted with family members of children undergoing follow-up at a reference clinic for congenital clubfoot treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and September 2024, recorded, transcribed, and subjected to lexical analysis using the IRaMuTeQ software and thematic analysis. Results: Thirteen family members of children undergoing treatment participated in the study. Their accounts described feelings related to the diagnosis, geographical and socioeconomic challenges in accessing care, experiences during treatment, expressions of faith and gratitude, perspectives on the future of the children, and the positive impact generated by the presence of a free reference clinic in the state. Conclusion: The family members' experiences showed that the implementation of the reference clinic was perceived as a facilitator of access to specialized care and was associated with greater trust, hope, and treatment adherence among the interviewed families.