Preceptorship in the qualification of Health Agents in Brazil: analysis of the characteristics of instructors in the Saúde com Agente Program (PSA)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This article analyzes the sociodemographic, educational, and professional profile of preceptors linked to the Health with Agent Program (Programa Saúde com Agente - PSA). A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted through an online questionnaire. Data were classified into three dimensions: “sociodemographic profile”, “educational profile and professional experience”, and “characteristics of the professional bond.” The sample consisted of 3,834 participants. Findings showed that 88.5% were female and 52.2% were black or brown. Regarding education, 99.7% of the preceptors reported having a higher education degree, with 83.3% having studied Nursing. Additionally, 48.3% have 10 or more years of experience in Primary Health Care (PHC). Regarding professional status, 39.8% act as statutory civil servants in their municipalities, 20.6% have fixed-term contracts, 19.7% are public employees, 9.1% hold commissioned positions, and 7.5% are under the Consolidation of Labor Laws (Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho - CLT) regime. Among the preceptors, 61.7% work in urban areas and 14.1% in rural areas. Understanding the outcomes of the performance of these preceptors, who are professionals within the Unified Health System (SUS), is of paramount importance for the effectiveness of continuing education in health throughout the country.
Source: Ciência & Saúde Coletiva
Topic: Health and Medical Education
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Ministério da Saúde
OpenAlex ID: W7170509149