Development of a «people-centred approach» to realising healthcare by facilitating, patient participation in health attainment in South Africa and Ukraine

Abstract

Object of this research is South Africa's healthcare system. South Africa's healthcare system faces numerouschallenges that contribute to inadequate access to quality healthcare for its citizens. These challenges includea scarcity of healthcare workers, insufficient funding and resource allocation, a high burden of communicableand non-communicable diseases, as well as disparities in healthcare access and outcomes driven by socioeconomicstatus and geographic location. Consequently, many South Africans endure unfavourable health outcomes, limitedavailability of essential health services, and a prevailing sense of mistrust towards the healthcare system. Con -currently, Ukraine has encountered its own set of healthcare obstacles, including similar shortages of healthcareprofessionals, funding deficiencies, and disparities in healthcare access exacerbated by armed conflict. This studyprovides insights into the patient experience, utilizing Kolb's experiential learning theory. It employs qualitativeand quantitative methods, including a questionnaire administered to conveniently sampled participants at ChrisHani Baragwanath hospital's HIV/AIDS unit. Data analysis using Excel and SPSS reveals a communication gapbetween healthcare workers and patients, highlighting the need for Department of Health training on communica -tion and diversity. Finally, the implementation of consistent patient feedback mechanisms is essential for health -care institutions to comprehend evolving patient needs, fostering the adoption of a «people-centred» approachto delivering high-quality healthcare services. By incorporating insights from Ukraine's challenges, this study notonly addresses the specific healthcare obstacles faced by South Africa but also provides a broader perspectiveon healthcare issues across diverse contexts. These insights enable policymakers and healthcare professionals toidentify potential solutions and work towards improving healthcare access and outcomes for all citizens, ensuringthe overall health and well-being of the population of South Africa and other countries with similar challenges.