Lesson learnt in the implementation of PHC - Health Systems Trust

Capacity Building of Health Councillors in
Kgalagadi District Municipality,
North West & Northern Cape
1 Strengthening
the District
Health System
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Councillors now carry out clinic visits to support the clinic nurses and to gain deeper insight
into the problems that the clinic nurses encounter
Through the pressure applied by the councillors, the district manager on the North West
side of Kgalagadi responded positively by acting immediately to the recommendations
made by the review team.
4. Improving management systems
A district health expenditure review (DHER) was conducted and completed in May 2003. The councillors
participated in the long process of data collection and continuous verification. This was an opportunity
for councillors to understand the link between finance, population and services. A number of questions
were asked especially around workload indicators. This has assisted councillors to respond with insight
on issues such as shortage of staff.
LESSONS LEARNT
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Councillors are a force to be recognised in health and development. The
councillors in Kgalagadi have made strides to improve health services in
the district. Their interest and commitment (irrespective of political
affiliation) has contributed to the successes in the district.
If one wishes to work with councillors it is crucial to first establish good
relationships with them. It is a process that requires patience,
acknowledgement and mutual respect.
Role clarification of councillors and health managers is important in order
to ensure that health workers are not threatened by the presence of
councillors and that councillors do not overstep their role.
Recommendation
Basic information around primary health care and about specific local
problems should be provided to all local politicians so that they can use
their political influence to the benefit of the community.
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