First level care in action, a medical intern's perspective in Lima-Peru

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53732/rccsalud/2025.e7119

Keywords:

perception, primary health care, internship and residency

Abstract

Introduction. Primary Health Care (PHC) is the most effective strategy for equitably improving the health of populations. However, its implementation faces challenges, especially in Latin American countries such as Peru. The perception of future medical professionals regarding this model is key to strengthening their training and adaptation to the health system. Objective. To evaluate the perception of medical interns regarding the primary health care model in Peru in 2025, identifying perceived strengths and weaknesses in accessibility, efficiency, and quality. Materials and Methods. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study. The population included human medicine interns. A sample size of 107 participants was calculated fusing the formula for descriptive proportion studies. A survey validated by the Latin American Federation of Scientific Societies of Medical Students was administered. Data were analyzed in Excel and SPSS v. 26 using descriptive statistics. Results. A total of 107 medical interns were surveyed, primarily rotating through MINSA facilities. Fifty-seven percent had a positive perception of primary care, compared to 43% with a negative perception, with slight variations depending on the Peruvian Integrated Health Networks Directorate or the type of facility. Conclusion. This study demonstrates the urgent need to strengthen medical training with a more primary care-oriented approach. It is recommended to include early care practices in primary care, strengthen training in family medicine, and highlight its strategic role.

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Published

2025-10-31

How to Cite

1.
Guevara Canchari WG, Cumpa Olaya NL, Leonardo Izquierdo A, Quispe Pereira B, Acha Santa Cruz F, Vela-Ruiz JM. First level care in action, a medical intern’s perspective in Lima-Peru. Rev. cient. cienc. salud [Internet]. 2025 Oct. 31 [cited 2025 Dec. 16];7:01-1. Available from: https://revistascientificas.upacifico.edu.py/index.php/PublicacionesUP_Salud/article/view/819