Exploring implementation of the ideal clinic realisation and maintenance programme in KwaZulu-Natal rural PHC facilities

Abstract

South African rural communities depend on Primary Health Care services. Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance programme is implemented to improve quality of Primary Health Care services. A qualitative case study design was used to explore the Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance programme’s implementation in public Primary Health Care facilities in a rural KwaZulu-Natal sub-district. Eight senior health managers and seven professional nurses were interviewed. Four themes were developed, including the organisation, barriers, facilitators and recommendations for Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance programme’s implementation in a rural context. Data suggested challenges in rural Primary Health Care such as sub-optimal infrastructure, growing disease burden and resource shortage. Successful implementation of Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance programme requires stakeholder support, communication and teamwork. The study’s findings can be utilised to improve implementation of Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance programme in Primary Health Care, facilitate Primary Health Care re-engineering and achieve universal health coverage.