A strategic action plan to enhance the accessibility of healthcare in rural areas of Zimbabwe

Abstract

Objective: To identify strategies and develop a strategic action plan to enhance accessibility to healthcare in rural areas of Zimbabwe. Methods: A cross sectional research approach with four (4) phases. Phase one (1) (quantitative), data was collected from professional nurses using self-administered questionnaires, healthcare users using interview questionnaires. Phase two (2) (qualitative), information was collected from a nominal group of national health directors leading to development strategic action plan in Phase three (3) informed by Phases 1 and 2, systems model and literature control. Strategic action plan was finalised and validated by members of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health in Phase 4. Settings: Two districts (Masvingo and Chegutu) in two provinces (Masvingo and Mashonaland West) were involved. Participants: Conveniently sampled professional nurses (90) and healthcare users (445) using the sampled public health facilities (Phase 1); conveniently sampled national health coordinators (five) (Phase 2); and all five members of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Health (Phase 4). Research findings: The strategic action plan focused on improving the health infrastructure; providing medical drugs, health workers and medical equipment; addressing shortages; and improving the capacity of the healthcare system. Conclusion: Active participation at all levels (professional nurses, healthcare users, national health directors and members of parliament) allowed the development of a strategic action plan.