Desafios e potencialidades da Rede CIEVS: um diagnóstico situacional das unidades do estado do Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

Since its establishment in 2005, the Strategic Information Center for Health Surveillance (CIEVS), under the Secretariat of Health Surveillance and Environment of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, has played a key role in the detection, monitoring, and response to public health emergencies in Brazil, in alignment with the International Health Regulations. The expansion of the CIEVS Network in a context of intensified climate change, the rise of emerging and re-emerging diseases, and a significant decline in vaccination coverage highlights the importance of surveillance systems for the timely identification of unusual health events. In this context, it is essential to ensure that CIEVS units operate with the necessary structure and processes to adequately respond to potential public health emergencies. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a situational diagnosis of the CIEVS Network in the state of Rio de Janeiro, focusing on physical and organizational infrastructure, work processes, and the operational capacity of municipal units. Method: A survey was conducted with key informants (coordinators from the eight municipal CIEVS units in Rio de Janeiro state) using an electronic questionnaire, complemented by on-site technical visits. Data collected addressed aspects related to installed capacity, work processes, human resources, and operational capacity. Results: With the exception of the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, all units began their activities after the COVID-19 pandemic. Although all units perform the main work processes expected of CIEVS, weaknesses were observed regarding inter-sector communication, as well as limitations in human resources and infrastructure. Teams also expressed interest in training and tools to support data analysis and visualization. The study identified strengths, such as the presence of multidisciplinary teams, but also highlighted the need for actions to promote greater operational standardization. Regular and systematic evaluations are crucial or the network's continuous improvement, considering that public health emergencies represent a growing challenge requiring strategic and coordinated actions for their management.