A framework for continuous quality improvement for fast-track queues in clinics in eThekwini is an open-access book published by AOSIS.

This book explores primary health care users who visit the clinic for short consultations, those who regularly come to collect medication for chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV and AIDS, clients for family planning and babies coming for routine weight monitoring, immunisation and routine prophylactic treatment. Since these health care users come for short consultations, the research investigates where the bottlenecks in the clinic queues resulted in long waiting times and if these consultations were of expected quality.

This book arose from the author’s own experience working in a primary health care setting focused on the challenges faced by patients. This book will add to the body of knowledge and management of health care users, as this book offers practical recommendations that are tailormade for specific health care users, to be implemented by primary health care providers and settings. Furthermore, the country is faced with a burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. New strategies are required to address the ever-changing disease pattern and the rapidly growing populations.

Copyright (c) 2024 Dudu G Sokhela (Author)

A framework for continuous quality improvement for fast-track queues in clinics in eThekwini provides scholars with an exploration of the intricate dynamics of primary health care facilities in South Africa. This insightful book delves into the indispensable role of primary health care facilities in mitigating the burdens confronting the South African health care system, from escalating rates of communicable and non-communicable diseases to endeavours to expand health care access to historically marginalised groups. Despite concerted efforts, these facilities have grappled with resource constraints, exacerbated waiting periods and compromised care quality due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic’s health care supply shortages and information gaps, leaving nurses in precarious positions. In the book, the author introduces a new patient fast-tracking solution designed to improve patients’ experience using health care amidst persistent challenges, such as staff shortages and increased workloads, that inhibit comprehensive assessment of patients. This book seeks to decipher and enhance the efficacy of fast-track queues, evaluating the care dispensed by primary health care workers to devise a framework for ongoing refinement. The author uses a clinical microsystems model and mixed-methods approach to identify patterns in patient fast-tracking and point out areas for improvement based on interviews and observations. Offering valuable insights and recommendations for scholars and professionals, this book proposes a model to bolster nurse support and optimise health care delivery, while ensuring timely consultation without compromising quality. An indispensable resource for scholars and professionals specialising in primary health care and related fields, this book paves the way for transformative advancements in health care service delivery and patient outcomes.