Management information support for district health systems based on Primary Health Care

Abstract

The authors consider the overall information requirements for a district health system. After reviewing the context of information support to operational management for primary health care (PHC) district health systems based upon PHC are defined with their principal features described. District management information systems typically have important information missing available data of inappropriate quantity and quality health staff with only limited skills in processing and using information and available information insufficiently used for local decision-making. District decision-making and information use are described in terms of resource allocation and use; use of services coverage and quality; policy and strategy; and assessment of health needs and program effects and impact. Increasing the scope of available information clarifying district needs resources objectives targets and indicators; streamlining procedures for data management; improving the skills of district staff in managing and using information; and broadening the use of information especially within districts and communities can improve district management information support. Closing sections consider the role and potential of microcomputer support for district health systems and policy implications at national and international levels.