FAMILY EXPERIENCE IN HOUSEHOLD CARE FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS OF HEALTH

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the research is to analyze the family’s experience with home care for children with special health needs (CRIANES). Method: This is a qualitative study, which analyzed 134 records at a philanthropic institution in a district of Minas Gerais and ten semi-structured interviews were performed to families of children with special health needs. Data analysis was performed using the content analysis proposed by Bardin. Results: The results indicate the complexity underlying the care provided to children with special health needs and it was also possible to identify an overload that falls on the primary caregiver. Conclusion: The importance of effective implementation of public policies for this group of children is evident and the need for the strengthening of the social and support networks to facilitate access and timely use of the services in order to improve the quality of life of the children with special health needs and their families.