Health Professionals’ Perception Related to Communication Technologies for Access to Information about Crack

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to identify the information and communication technologies used by health professionals to assist in training and updating of technical and scientific knowledge about crack, exchange of experiences, and development of programs to prevent consumption and
treatment of addicts.

Methods: The qualitative methodology was used, constructed an intentional
sample by criteria and applied research techniques through semi‑structured interviews, triangulation of the analysis, and key informants. The study resulted in the presentation of differences between the way key informants and health professionals sought information.

Results: Internet was the preferred source; however, key informants sought information on sites of scientific journals and reference centers, while health professionals did free searches on the internet to consume information.

Conclusions: The literature does not reflect a broad scope of the specific area, but relates the problem of access to health information to other characteristics. The sources of information about crack are focused on digital technologies, the internet and its specific tools. It also finds that health professionals are not being capacitate solidly on the subject of study.

Keywords: Crack cocaine, health professionals, information, communication technology