[Use of the rapid appraisal method for the identification of perceived needs in a low-class barrio in the city of Buenos Aires].
OBJECTIVE
To present rapid appraisal as a qualitative technique for researching the perceived needs of a population, which is valid, rapid and cheap.


METHODS
Qualitative method: semi-structured interviews with key informants, focus group.


METHODS
A poor quarter with 2921 inhabitants in the city of Buenos Aires.


METHODS
Key informants: people resident in the area for over 10 years.


RESULTS
The main problems perceived by the community were: environmental pollution because of the accumulation of rubbish, alcohol and drug abuse among the young, and the need to extend the opening hours of the area's health centre.


CONCLUSIONS
The needs perceived surpassed specific medical problems. They covered social questions, environmental problems and how to organise the health care system.
Lotersztain
M
M
Hospital Municipal Teodoro Alvarez y Centro de Salud No. 7. Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Zorat
M
M
Lecouna
M
M
Motta
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001118:Argentina; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011204:Poverty Areas; D012940:Social Problems
Uso del método de rapid appraisal para identificar las necesidades percibidas en un barrio de clases bajas de la ciudad de Buenos Aires.