Browsing by Author "Hikuama, Hilde V."

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    An assessment of the efficacy of decentralisation on public health service delivery: A case study of the Omaheke region
    (University of Namibia, 2025) Hikuama, Hilde V.; Lwendo, Brian
    This study assesses the impact of decentralisation on healthcare service delivery in the Omaheke Region, Namibia. The study employed a qualitative approach, incorporating data from a targeted sample of 30 participants out of a population of 406. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews, which allowed participants to share their experiences and perceptions regarding the accessibility, resource challenges, and engagement within the decentralised healthcare framework. The findings indicate that decentralisation has made healthcare services more accessible, especially in rural areas, due to the introduction of community health workers and outreach programs. Participants noted that healthcare services are now more reachable, which has reduced travel times for many residents and increased engagement in preventive care. However, resource inconsistencies, particularly medication shortages and insufficient staffing, emerged as significant challenges, affecting the quality and reliability of services in the decentralised system. These resource issues were commonly reported, underscoring the need for more consistent supply chains and improved staffing levels to ensure effective healthcare delivery. The study further found that decentralisation has empowered communities by fostering greater engagement and local involvement in healthcare processes, enhancing accountability and making services more responsive to local needs. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening supply chains for essential medical resources to mitigate shortages and implementing staffing improvements to address service gaps. Additionally, investing in healthcare infrastructure by building more clinics in underserved areas is advised to improve accessibility