Applying the systemic thinking in the work on family health

Abstract

Background: Working in family health requires a holistic framework, which includes all aspects of health. The biological paradigm is not an adequate one because it fails to answer many important questions. The authors present the systemic theory as one that is more applicable to their work in family and community health.

Material and Method: The authors review the literature, and apply the systemic theory to their family health practice at Vila Verde Health Unit, Curitiba, Brazil.

Conclusion: The practice of an integrated approach to health, based on the systemic theory, appears to have changed the relationship between the health team and the community. The model of health care delivery has been modified to include health promotion activities and community outreach, in addition to dealing with the health concerns of patients who present at the clinic.