PET-Health/Equity: An experience report on actions to value health workers in the maternity process

Abstract

This study presents a qualitative and reflective experience report conducted within the PET-Health/Equity program, focusing on valuing health workers in the maternity process. The activities took place in Primary Health Care Units in Manaus, involving students, preceptors, and professionals in discussion groups, workshops, and collective meetings.The concept of maternity care was broadly debated, emphasizing that caregiving is not exclusive to women but can be performed by anyone responsible for another person's well-being. It was observed that many professionals were unfamiliar with this approach, associating it only with biological motherhood. The exchange of experiences provided reflections on gender equity in caregiving and the need to recognize affective labor in the professional environment.The results indicate that actions aimed at valuing health professionals contribute to a more welcoming work environment, strengthening the bond between the healthcare team and SUS users. Furthermore, they highlight the importance of interprofessional education in developing technical and socio-emotional skills, fostering more humanized care.Finally, it is concluded that PET-Health/Equity represents a fundamental strategy for integrating education, service, and community, ensuring the training of professionals who are better prepared to work collaboratively and sensitively to the needs of healthcare workers and the population.