Atendimento odontológico no sistema prisional de Minas Gerais: proposição de uma estratégia de aprimoramento do acesso

Abstract

Introduction: The Brazilian prison system faces significant challenges in ensuring access to healthcare services due to overcrowding and precarious structural conditions, which hinder the provision of adequate care for incarcerated individuals. In this context, informal methods such as note-passing have emerged to request dental care. However, these mechanisms lack organization and standardization, compromising the efficiency of healthcare delivery to the prison population. Objective: To propose a technical product offering a communication strategy between incarcerated individuals and healthcare professionals working in the prison system. Methodology: Initially, the processes for requesting, scheduling, and managing dental care referrals were identified in correctional facilities in the state of Minas Gerais. These processes were analyzed to identify similarities, differences, and potential to enhance communication between incarcerated individuals and healthcare professionals. Based on the collected data, a socio-technological product—a Social Technology—was proposed to improve communication between inmates and dental care services. Results: Data from 25 prisons were consolidated. Results revealed that note-passing is the most used mechanism, though other methods, such as requests made through family members and lawyers, are also frequent. The absence of standardization in these processes leads to delays and inequities. Consequently, the proposed Social Technology consists of a standardized form for dental care requests, allowing better demand identification and prioritization based on signs of severity. Conclusion: The proposed solution has the potential to improve organization and communication, making the process more efficient and accessible. It is expected that this technical product will contribute to better management of dental care demands and equitable access to oral health services in the prison system.