Policy Proposal to Address the Decentralization of Public Health: Transferring of Sub-district Health Promotion Hospitals to Provincial Administrative Organizations
Keywords:
Epidemiology, Mission Transfer, Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Provincial Administrative OrganizationAbstract
This article explores the operational challenges encountered by Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals, following the transfer of responsibilities to Provincial Administrative Organizations. The study specifically focuses on the issue of epidemiological operations. A systematic literature review, combined with thematic analysis, is employed to address three key issues arising from this transfer of responsibilities.
Several challenges were identified in the epidemiological operations of Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals: 1) insufficient personnel and resources, 2) inadequate coordination and collaboration, 3) poor data quality, and 4) the absence of clear operational guidelines and standards. Based on these findings, the author proposes following policy recommendations: 1) establishing of standardized guidelines for epidemiological operations, 2) development of workforce plans and personnel capacity-building, and 3) integration of data management systems and promotion of collaborative operations.
Key issues: Epidemiological work is primarily managed by local government organizations, but transferring of this responsibility has led to a lack of continuity in operations, including data management, disease surveillance, prevention and control, as well as capacity building for personnel. Additionally, there is an absence of clear guidelines for conducting epidemiological activities.
Implications: Advocating for a policy proposal with aims to enhance the efficiency of epidemiological management, by improving personnel, resources, and establishing standardized operational guidelines.
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