Matrix support in Mental Health in primary care: the effects on the understanding and case management of community health workers

Matrix support is a pedagogical-care device primarily used to increase the problem-solving capacity of primary care, and highly employed in mental health care. The present study assessed the effects of matrix support in mental health in a family health unit in the city of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. The study employed participant observation and interviews with 12 community health agents, which were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Four dimensions of effects were identified: a) changes in the attitudes of the professionals; b) expanding access to services; c) developing new care practices; d) increasing problem-solving capacity. The support matrix produced changes in the understanding and practices of professionals, as well as in organizational changes of family health units and in their relationship with the service network, indicating that matrix support is an effective intervention to qualify mental health care. Keywords: Matrix support. Mental health. Primary health care. Assessment in health. Outcome Assessment.