Health Services Users Boards in Peru: knowledge, perceptions and practices on the protection of their rights

Abstract

Introduction. Social participation and empowerment of citizens is an essential public health function, necessary for collective action of protection, promotion and improvement of health. The National Superintendence of Health (SUSALUD) is an institution that protects health rights by empowering citizens at the center of the national health system, promoting shared responsibility through the Health Services Users Boards (JUS). The objetive of the present study was determine the knowledge, perceptions and practices of the members of the JUS on the normative framework and functions of SUSALUD and the JUS, in the period 2015-2016. Methods. Observational, descriptive study in seven regions of Peru with the participation of 67 members of the JUS. A survey was applied to measure knowledge, perceptions, and practices. Results. The 67 members of the JUS were older than 18 years, 56.7% with higher education, 58.2% within the economically active population, and 70.1% previously participated in an organization. More than 60% of respondents knew the normative framework and functions of SUSALUD and the JUS. With regard to knowledge, perceptions and practices, there is a predisposition to the dissemination and promotion of citizen participation of users of health services. Conclusions. The knowledge, perceptions and practices of JUS members from seven regions of Peru are adequate for the strategy to materialize citizen participation in institutional management to contribute to the protection and Health promotion.