Although residents of the favelas in the south zone of São Paulo have access to the Unified Health System (SUS), the time allocated for consultations is insufficient for patients to discuss their symptoms in depth and understand how their illness manifests in their lives. It is observed that patients in these communities have a different self-awareness: they want to take care of themselves, are familiar with healthy eating and exercise, and seek de-medicalization and more behavioral and natural treatment strategies. However, for this to happen, it is essential to build a relationship with the healthcare professional and ensure easy access for follow-up visits.