The effectiveness of the referral system in primary health care in the West Rand region : a normative-ethical study with special emphasis on traditional healers

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this research is to identify the various levels of health care units, theirrelationships and the problems hindering an effective referral system. To achievethis goal, use is made of a case study of the West Rand area in Gauteng. Thestandpoint is that, to achieve Primary Health for all South Africans referralsystems within health care units and levels must be reciprocal. It is argued thatfor Primary Health Care to be successful, it must satisfy the goal of affordabilityappropriateness and accessibility. Results from the research revealed that fourhealth care levels, namely traditional healers, health NGOs, Clinics, andHospitals. Though there is some degree of referral in the study area, it wasobserved that referrals in the study area were not reciprocal. Amongst the majorproblems identified as hindering an effective referral system in the study area,include lack of cooperation between health institutions, poor health infrastructureand communication network as well as lack of other health paraphernalia. Theresearch also found that government policy towards some of the healthinstitutions (Traditional healers) contributes to the inefficiency of proper referralsin the study area.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University