Strengthening the health system for a people-centred community orientation in South Africa.
Rising multimorbidity in South Africa highlights the need for resilient, people-centred health systems. Weaknesses in health system pillars and limited multi-sectoral approaches reduce the ability of systems to respond effectively to syndemics and complex health needs.
The project conducted formative research in an urban and rural sub-district to identify barriers, needs, and opportunities for health systems strengthening. Using a realist evaluation approach, Initial Programme Theories (IPTs) were co-designed to guide interventions aimed at strengthening key health system pillars and achieving people-centred outcomes.
By mapping system gaps and co-developing evidence-based strategies, the project contributes to more responsive and resilient health systems. It supports improved management of multimorbidity and informs policy and practice through published research, including a nested PhD study.
Prof. Inge Petersen
Assoc. Prof Andre Van Rensburg
Prof Zamasomi Luvuno
Assoc. Prof Anna Voce
Prof. Edwin Wouters
Dr. Chris Desmond
Dr. Tasneem Kathree
Londiwe Mthethwa-Bhengu
Sanah Bucibo
One Selohilwe
Gcina Radebe
Sept 2021 - August 2024
UK MRC
Kings College London
University of Cape Town
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health
People-centred
Community sub-system
Community health workers
