The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of health professionals on the changes brought about by health system reforms in Zimbabwe. Qualitative, explorative and descriptive research was conducted to identify concerns of health care provision, as described by health professionals in Zimbabwe, and to provide awareness for future reforms. Data collection was done using semi-structured interviews. Ten health professionals from two study sites participated in the research. The findings revealed that health professionals have an understanding of health system reforms and how these have changed the way health services have been delivered over the years. There is a general outcry among health professionals regarding the deteriorating provision of quality health care amidst the challenges that the health system is facing under a collapsing economic situation. The study recommends inclusion of health professionals in policy making as well as timely dissemination of any information regarding changes in policy. The study also recommends further research on the same topic with a larger diverse group of participants. / Health Studies / M. P. H.

It was perceived that an imbalance exists between resource allocations for health care within the Ekurhuleni Health District (EHD). This study consequently used a retrospective, quantitative methodology to investigate health equity in the EHD and to collect information on clinic buildings, staffing and budget allocations. Although clinics were oversupplied in terms of the norms set by the National Department of Health, they were found not to be in keeping with population growth in the Ekurhuleni district. The study highlighted an inequitable spread of nursing staff, which would require that nursing personnel be re-deployed. The per capita spending in the different service delivery regions was also found to be inequitable. It was subsequently recommended that spending on clinics be revised (especially in the populous Southern SDR), that staff be reallocated and that budget allocations be reviewed to achieve equity in Ekurhuleni. / Health Studies / Thesis (M.A. (Public Health))

It was perceived that an imbalance exists between resource allocations for health care within the Ekurhuleni Health District (EHD). This study consequently used a retrospective, quantitative methodology to investigate health equity in the EHD and to collect information on clinic buildings, staffing and budget allocations. Although clinics were oversupplied in terms of the norms set by the National Department of Health, they were found not to be in keeping with population growth in the Ekurhuleni district. The study highlighted an inequitable spread of nursing staff, which would require that nursing personnel be re-deployed. The per capita spending in the different service delivery regions was also found to be inequitable. It was subsequently recommended that spending on clinics be revised (especially in the populous Southern SDR), that staff be reallocated and that budget allocations be reviewed to achieve equity in Ekurhuleni. / Health Studies / Thesis (M.A. (Public Health))