Bases for implementation and pillars to support Advanced Access: An invitation to debate

Abstract

This study aims to produce a theoretical essay to present and discuss aspects of the appointment scheduling model known as Advancing Access (AA) to improve the access attribute in Primary Health Care. In this way, it discusses the access models used in Brazil and in the international context and presents AA after 26 years of implementation as a powerful alternative to facilitate access. The authors defend AA, considering that the model guarantees timely access when the user needs it; it shows an increase in the number of appointments, a reduction in no-shows, a reduction in waiting times and user satisfaction. The model's effectiveness depends on prior analysis, customization to the environment, experimentation with the model for incorporation, organizational and structural changes and adaptations by professionals in their roles and routines, careful planning involving managers, professionals and the population, as well as training and committed leadership. In this sense, its correct application can improve the access attribute in the Brazilian Unified Health System.