O gap das competências da fase preparatória do processo licitatório da Secretaria de Saúde da Prefeitura de Juiz de Fora

Abstract

The Unified Health System (SUS) is organized based on the principles of decentralization, comprehensiveness, and social participation, structured through a regionalized and hierarchical network of services. In this context, the municipality of Juiz de Fora plays a strategic role as a microregional and macroregional hub, being responsible for providing medium- and highcomplexity services. Given the limitation of public resources and the increasing demand for healthcare services, administrative efficiency—especially in public procurement—becomes a central challenge. The preparatory phase of the procurement process stands out as a critical stage, requiring proper planning and public servants with competencies aligned with technical and regulatory requirements. In this regard, this research aimed to analyze the competency gap in this phase by comparing the competencies required by the process with those assigned to the positions and those effectively demonstrated by individuals working in the Municipal Health Department of Juiz de Fora. This is an empirical study with a qualitative and descriptive approach, which used document analysis and semi-structured interviews to identify and assess competencies and their levels. The results reveal inconsistencies between the formal design of the process, the Internal Regulations, and the actual execution of activities, highlighting misalignments that directly affect procurement efficiency. Gaps were identified stemming from the lack of structured training, the diversity of educational backgrounds among public servants, high turnover in appointed positions, and the absence of formal mechanisms for knowledge management and transfer. It was also observed that weaknesses in technical and regulatory knowledge increase procedural heterogeneity and decentralization in document preparation, while outdated regulations and limited process mapping hinder the standardization of activities. Furthermore, the restricted specialization within subsecretariats may limit performance across different procurement modalities, reinforcing the need for broad and integrated training. As implications, the study highlights the need for systematic investments in initial and continuous training, updating internal regulations, improving process mapping, and institutionalizing knowledge management practices. This research contributes by providing support for improving public management, promoting greater efficiency, legal certainty, administrative standardization, and positive impacts on the quality of healthcare services delivered to the population.