The health care experience of individuals with morbid obesity assisted in public healthcare services

Abstract Objective: To understand the health care experience of individuals with morbid obesity assisted in public healthcare services. Method: This was a qualitative study based on Alfred Schütz’s social phenomenology, carried out in the medical-surgical clinic of a public hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Interviews with open questions were conducted between January and April 2017. Results: Seventeen individuals with morbid obesity participated in the study. The findings revealed care(lessness) experiences of obese individuals in the Brazilian Healthcare System in terms of structure/logistics and human resources. Study participants shared care expectations about health care management and staff, and further considered the Primary Health Care service as a scenario of power to have their obesity-related care needs met. Conclusion: The findings need to be carefully (re)examined by the healthcare system’s micro- and macro management, as well as by health teaching and research personnel, in order to integrate, follow up and qualify care actions towards the prevention and control of obesity in public healthcare services.