Health and related indicators 2022

Abstract

Background This chapter aims to provide a repository of data, focusing on the national and provincial levels, that describes the broad status of the South African health system (socio-demographic indicators and determinants and health status indicators, as well as health service indicators). It examines the available health information data sources in South Africa, with a particular focus on whether they have been strengthened during and after the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The broader context for this chapter lies in the desire to see the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic translated into systemic changes that advance the reform of South Africa’s fragmented health services and hasten the attainment of effective and sustainable universal health coverage. Methods Data were sourced primarily from national routine data sources, but also captured from major surveys and global reports. Using monthly routine data sources, the difference between expected and actual routine measures were calculated and expected trends were forecast. These graphs enabled the depiction of the changes that occurred pre- and post-COVID in South Africa for key health indicators. Conclusions Progress is discernible, but there is also evidence of back-sliding, of a revision to previous positions, and therefore a need to refocus attention on important lessons, lest they be lost. Recommendations Strong health information systems should be the foundation on which evidence-based decisions can be made to support strong governance and leadership, where human resources for health are also supported and healthcare funding is prioritised.