Collective construction of a Continuing Health Education Center in a Brazilian municipality: action research

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the process of collective construction of the Continuing Health Education Center based on a survey of health workers’ needs. Method: action research conducted between 2021 and 2025, using multiple qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. The exploratory phase identified the absolute frequency of educational needs, which were validated in a focus group, guiding educational initiatives. Concurrently, a working group held workshops/meetings to develop the documentation necessary to formalize the Continuing Health Education Center. Results: the thematic priorities for education were “humanization of care for people with mental health problems” in primary and tertiary care, and “management of situations of violence” in secondary care. Three educational initiatives were implemented: humanization for receptionists; basic life support for mid-level professionals; and patient safety for hospital professionals and patients/families receiving care. Finally, the process of establishing the center began with a workshop to develop an action plan and a monthly follow-up. However, political barriers, such as the absence of the position in the municipal organizational chart, hindered the formalization of the sector. Final considerations: the collective discussion of Continuing Health Education fostered dialogue between the different levels of care. The process of collectively building a Continuing Health Education Center is challenging. Furthermore, it requires the participation of managers, professionals, and healthcare services while overcoming organizational and political barriers.