Analysis of the oral health care network development in Minas Gerais state, Brazil

Objectives This study aimed to analyze the development stage of the oral health care network of the Brazilian Unified Health System in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study was conducted with 205 municipal oral health coordinators from the state. Data collection was carried out through a validated questionnaire to analyze the state of development of the oral health care network. Descriptive and cluster analysis were performed, and two clusters were generated. Results The total median score of the questionnaires classified Minas Gerais as a state with incipient oral health care networks and a minimal capacity to operate such networks, reflected in the predominance of cluster 1 in the sample. There was no statistical association between age, time since graduation, and time spent working as a coordinator and the clusters (Mann-Whitney test). The coordinators' gender and educational level were also not statistically associated with the clusters (Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact, respectively). Conclusion There is a great need to improve the organization of services of the oral health care network in Minas Gerais. This can be done through improvements in its operational structure, as well as investment in management training.