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Exploring Measures to Improve Utilisation of the Central Chronic Medicines Dispensing and Distribution Programme in the Sekhukhune Primary Healthcare Facilities

Sekopa Ragosebo Portia （ University of South Africa, Department of Health Studies, Pretoria, South Africa ）

Netangaheni Robert Thinavhuyo （ University of South Africa, Department of Health Studies, Pretoria, South Africa ）

https://doi.org/10.37155/3060-8708-0203-1

Abstract

Background: The Central Chronic Medicines Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) programme was launched in South Africa to support patients on long-term treatment by making it easier for them to access their medication. However, its utilisation in primary healthcare facilities within Sekhukhune has faced significant difficulties, affecting both healthcare workers and patients.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe measures that would help to improve utilisation of the CCMDD programme in the Sekhukhune district primary healthcare facilities of Limpopo Province.

Setting: The research took place across nine primary healthcare facilities within the Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province.

Method: The study utilised the qualitative research approach with an explorative descriptive research design. A total of forty-five (45) one-on-one semi-structured interviews were carried out with nurses overseeing the CCMDD programme in Sekhukhune primary healthcare facilities, as well as with patients living with chronic illnesses who are enrolled in the programme. The collected data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: The study identified several key measures to enhance the effectiveness of the CCMDD programme in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo Province. These include establishing proper channels of communication, increasing government recruitment of nursing personnel, conducting awareness campaigns, providing ongoing staff training, consistently delivering health education, and implementing systems to track patients who miss their medication collections.

Conclusion: The utilisation of the CCMDD programme could be highly beneficial for both chronic patients and nurses within Sekhukhune District PHC facilities, if proper measures to improve the programme are effectively implemented.

Contribution: The study would help to improve the utilisation of the CCMDD programme by refining key operational aspects, including client enrolment procedures, medication packaging and dispensing processes, SMS communication, and the delivery system to designated pick-up points.

Keywords

Measures; Utilisation; Central; Chronic; Medicines; Dispensing; Distribution

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References

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