OBJECTIVE: To characterize the profile of patients with tuberculosis (TB) and identify the service flowchart, and the opinion of professionals responsible for the Tuberculosis Control Program of municipalities in the Regional Health Department III of the State of São Paulo. METHODS: A descriptive study of quantitative approach covering 122 notifications identified in the Control System of Patients with Tuberculosis, 2007/2008, and six interviews with nurses responsible for this program in the region. RESULTS: Of 122 notifications identified, 69% were men, 35% were unemployed, 25% were alcoholics and 86% had pulmonary TB. The control activities were centralized, and the nurses were responsible for programs in the region. These professionals identified favorable points of team involvement and ease in requesting examinations. Unfavorable points included the lack of equipment and professionals, and the delays in obtaining exams. CONCLUSION: The region has the typical profile for TB, including aspects of social fragility, centralized control actions, and those in charge do not recognize the centralization of the actions, and the lack of autonomy of the units or weaknesses of the program.
Health services evaluation; Tuberculosis; National health programs