This study evaluated the effectiveness of the health surveillance actions in Canoas/RS during the implantation of the local health management system and characterized the profile of the health agents by means of a cross-sectional descriptive study. The target population consisted of all the 12 health agents of the team. The data were collected using a self-applicable questionnaire (Essential Public Health Function nº6) with performance classifications ranging from 0 to 1; interview with the direction of the department; and survey of the service reports. The main results obtained through statistical analysis and interpretation showed that the management model together with the technical commitment of the health agents allowed for an effective implantation of the decentralized, local management; most agents were females; 66.7% had a mean age of 46 years (±7.5); and 58.31% of them had higher education and an income of more than five minimum wages; the Essential Public Health Function nº6 measured 0.7 as final average. It is concluded that the health surveillance actions during the decentralization process were effective, showing a performance above the average in relation to the used instrument. The structure of the service and the profile of the health agents are similar to those found in other health surveillance departments.
Health surveillance; Health services evaluation; Public health; Decentralization
