The Key to Better Healthcare? Strengthening Service Capacity in Rural Areas
By: Palesa Chidi
Access to healthcare in under resourced areas is a major challenge, often due to limited service capacity. But what does service capacity really mean, and why is it crucial for rural healthcare? We spoke with RHAP Junior Researcher and Project Officer, Celene Coleman, to explore the key factors affecting healthcare service capacity, the role of infrastructure, and how technology and policy can bridge the gaps in rural health service provision.
What is service capacity in simple terms and why is it important?
Service capacity is about how well a healthcare system can handle the number of people needing care. It matters because if there aren’t enough doctors, nurses, or clinics, people have to wait too long or travel far to get help, which can make health problems worse.
What are the main factors that have an impact on service capacity and how it affects healthcare service delivery in under-resourced areas?
- Not enough doctors and nurses: Many healthcare workers prefer to work in cities where pay and working conditions are better.
- Poor infrastructure: Bad roads, no electricity, and lack of clean water make it hard for clinics to run properly.
- Over-emphasis on hospitals: Most healthcare money goes to big hospitals instead of local clinics, making basic healthcare harder to access.
- People don’t trust clinics: Bad experiences at small clinics push people to overcrowded hospitals instead.
Does infrastructure have a role to play? How?
Yes, infrastructure is so important. Simple basics like clean water, steady electricity, and good roads help the clinic function well. Without these, medicine can’t be stored properly, doctors struggle to treat patients, and people can’t get to clinics when they need to, nor can emergency services.
How can technology and innovation help bridge gaps in rural healthcare service provision?
Different forms of technology would assist in different ways. For example, the introduction and adequate usage of the following:
- Telemedicine: Helps people get medical advice without traveling long distances.
- Mobile health clinics: Brings doctors and medicine to areas with no healthcare facilities, making it more accessible to patients.
- Digital patient records: Make it easier for doctors to track and manage patients’ health.
- Solar power for clinics: Keeps lights and medical equipment running even in areas without electricity.
Are there specific policy recommendations that could significantly improve service capacity?
- Increase investment in PHC facilities and workforce.
- Improve rural healthcare infrastructure and transport.
- Enhance community trust towards the clinic and healthcare system through education and outreach.
- Implement equitable funding models like the National Health Insurance.