Epidemiological surveillance as a pillar of primary health care

Abstract

Introduction: The central role of epidemiological surveillance is shown in the systematic and constant collection, analysis and interpretation of data for use in the planning, execution and evaluation of public health interventions aimed at preventing and controlling risks and damage to health.
Objective: To analyze epidemiological surveillance as a fundamental pillar of PHC.
Material and Methods: A bibliographic search was carried out since March 2024 in the virtual databases Lilacs, Pubmed, Biomed Central, Science direct, using the DeCS descriptors: “Epidemiological surveillance, Primary Health Care”.
Results: The key foundation of the authors' perspective on epidemiological surveillance as a pillar of PHC is argued as an essential tool so that primary health services, as the first line of defense, can act effectively in critical situations. implementing preventive measures to combat the spread of infectious diseases.
Conclusions: The development of epidemiological surveillance strengthens primary health care by improving the detection and prevention of diseases, optimizing resource management and planning, and raising the quality of care. It empowers the community, reduces health inequalities and guarantees an effective response to health emergencies. Epidemiological surveillance is an essential tool for a more effective and resilient PHC.