This study aims to identify and analyze users' demands to emergency services, as well as to examine the work organization to welcome them in the health system. We carried out a case study with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through free observation by time sampling. Observation focused on the organization of the work process and on the care given to users who received some kind of care at the emergency service, highlighting their demands and their acceptance in the system. Users who demanded health services displayed different needs, ranging from the simple to the more complexes level. The work process was organized to meet some of these needs, aiming, within certain limits, to treat the main complaint and follow the health system hierarchy. Healthcare users were responsible for obtaining integral care. They journeyed alone, at their own risk, through different services, with no guidance or help from the healthcare system, as would be expected.
health services; quality of health care; health councils (SUS); emergency medical services