This paper describes and analyzes the objectives, strategies, problems and difficulties surrounding the implementation of the National Support Program for the Training of Specialists in Strategic Areas known as "PRO-RESIDENCIA". From the description of the results of two notices issued in October 2009 and the progress toward the objectives of the proposed policy, we conducted research employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Results showed that the vacancies generated by the program reflected a better geographical distribution and the prioritization of strategic expertise for the SUS. Matrix support projects revealed the training model's capacity to generate change, redefining the relationship between the healthcare system's needs and specialized medical training. We conclude that the strategy of using the support matrix serves as a more powerful model for public policy to generate the necessary changes in specialist medical training. Other structural initiatives for residency are, however, fundamental to the effectiveness of the proposed policy, such as a new regulation and national curriculum guidelines combined with the implementation of policies for the management of medical specialists in the public health system.
Medical Education; Unified Health System; Policy Formulation; Public Policy; Management in Health; Strategies
