Spatial distribution of hearing aids users from a hearing health service

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the spatial distribution of users at a Microregional Auditory Health Center, according to sociodemographic, clinical and care aspects. Method: This is a cross-sectional descriptive observational study using geoprocessing techniques to describe the distribution of individuals attended at the hearing health service of a Microregional Auditory Health Center. The data collect was obtained through analysis of medical records of users served from May 2009 to May 2013. For the analysis and presentation of the data, thematic maps were elaborated from a cartographic base of the Territorial Division of the Regionals of the city of Betim (MG). Results: Of the sample of 745 individuals, 699 (94%) belonged to Betim residents and 46 (6%) from four other cities belonging to the service coverage region. Users residing in Betim were visually distributed on the city map according to the region that resides to analyze socio-demographic, clinical and care aspects according to the regions of the city. Conclusion: The geoprocessing technique allowed a more detailed observation of the service, with information relevant to management, which can serve as a work strategy for the development of actions to promote hearing health.