Year: 2022
Type: editorial
Abstract: The 24th edition of the South African Health Review (SAHR) presents evidence of steps taken towards answering these questions. This edition describes some of the key challenges facing our health system and, through germane illustrations, actions that lead to adaptable and innovative responses to the epidemic in South Africa. The 29 chapters are authored by a diverse range of public health practitioners who offer a range of experiential and reflexive perspectives in responding to the pandemic. These accounts encompass topics depicting the impact of COVID-19 on existing health services and programmes; the impact of socio-economic disparities on adherence to nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) and access to vaccines and treatment; the rationing of healthcare services and implications for achieving equity of access to these services; the emergence of innovative collaborations, networks and partnerships; the impact of measures taken to balance saving lives with saving livelihoods; and emerging lessons for future management for prevention of pandemics and other public health emergencies. Overview of chapters The suite of chapters is presented in five sections. The first section shares insights on evidence-informed decisionmaking to inform national responses amid the many uncertainties that typify the effects of the pandemic. Section two describes lessons learnt from the experiences of service providers and vulnerable populations. Sections three and four examine sectoral collaborations and the COVID-19 response in relation to the needs of vulnerable groups. The final section covers barriers to service access, and availability of vaccines and other COVID-19 health products for the general population.
Source: South African Health Review
DOI: 10.61473/001c.70436
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4387014008