| dc.description.abstract | A user-friendly computer software programme was introduced in the Western Cape in the latter half of 1998 for the purpose of capturing the
Provincial Minimum Dataset. The programme, designed for use by ordinary health workers, uses a relational database for data entry, validation and indicator development and then 'pulls'the data through to Excel PivotTables for analysis, manipulation and graphing. Training, both formal and informal, concentrated on skills development in data entry and manipulation. On site and telephonic support was provided for all issues related to using the programme. Anecdotal evidence has suggested that use of the tools available to adapt the software programme to local use as well as use of available data/information for informed decision-making was limited. The research investigated to what extent use was made of the software tools, local adaptation and of information arising from the software programme. A cross-sectional descriptive study design using both qualitative and quantitative techniques was used. Data collection included direct observation, a checklist for identifying local adaptation and interviews. The study population was the eleven health districts of the Cape Metropole Region. A
purposive sampling procedure was used to select five health districts. The results indicated that while data entry clerks were adept at the
monthly routine of data entry, manipulation and constructing monthly printouts of raw data, few adaptations of the available tools had been made for Iocal use. Health managers demonstrated both a limited understanding of the concept information culture as well as the use of information for decision making. Recommendations incorporated strategies to facilitate both the use of the software programme tools and the access and use of analysed data as a basis for informed decision-making. | en_US |
