Algorithm for the clinical management of osteoarthritis in the family health strategy

Objectives: To develop an effective algorithm for the clinical management of osteoarthritis in the family health strategy, aiming to improve early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and the quality of life of patients. Methods: Qualitative study where primary care physicians were invited to respond to a questionnaire regarding personal aspects of the professionals, as well as technical knowledge on the diagnosis and follow-up of osteoarthritis. Results: The profile of the general practitioner in Teresina's Family Health Strategy (ESF) is a younger professional (<50 years old), with more than 5 years of experience in primary care, who regularly undergoes scientific updates, and feels capable of diagnosing osteoarthritis using simple imaging exams. They identify the lack of health promotion programs and multidisciplinary teams as challenges in the diagnosis and follow-up of these patients. They consider projects aimed at health promotion for these patients and the development of osteoarthritis management protocols specifically for primary care to be of utmost importance. Conclusion: Due to the high incidence of referrals to specialists, it is of paramount importance to implement clinical management algorithms for osteoarthritis in primary care.