Intervention of Physical Education professional: training, profile and skills to perform in the Programa Academia da Saúde in Brazil

Abstract

The insertion of Physical Education professional (PEP) in the health system (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS) is evident in policies and programs that enable and require his/her performance. In this context, this study aims to discuss aspects of student's education, profile and skills in order to interfere the PEP under SUS, particularly in the community health and fitness program (Programa Academia da Saúde - PAS), considering the contribution of several Brazilian authors about teaching or practicing in Physical Education. This literature review analyzed studies that had been produced in the Country between 1997 and 2013, investigating education, profile and skills of professionals that will work in the health area. The literature review also mentioned important advances in health education aiming the integrality and overcoming of the biomedical model. However, studies on the intervention of the PEP at SUS have shown differences between the required profile and training in higher education. The performance of the PEP at SUS, and specifically on the PAS, requires the knowledge of theoretical concepts, techniques and experiences in the field of public health, as well as integrating educational institutions with health services especially by permanent channels of feedback and discussion of problems, progress and needs.