Veterinarian's practice in public health and their insertion in the family health support center (NASF)

Abstract

Introduction: In 2008, to improve the “Sistema Único de Saúde” (SUS), it was created the “Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família”(NASF). This system is composed by professionals of several different areas. Veterinarians are one of those professionals that can and should be a part of NASF teams, due to their competence to act on human and public health programs. Objective: To describe the importance of Veterinarians on public health systems and the insertion of those professionals in NASF teams. Methodology: An integrative review of the literature was carried out evaluating the insertion of the veterinarian in the NASF. Results: In the past, Veterinarians were seen exclusively as professionals focused on animal health. However, their activities expanded in the field of public health by joining several health programs, such as NASF. Under these circumstances, the Veterinarian would be able to work on public and human health programs. Conclusion: The insertion of Vets on NASF teams increase the actions aiming at preventing zoonosis. It is observed a lack of graduating veterinary public health specialists, and also barriers to insert and to integrate those professionals on NASF programs.