Community health centers (CHCs) play a crucial role in primary healthcare delivery in South Africa. However, their efficiency and cost-effectiveness remain under scrutiny. Panel data from 20 CHCs across South Africa were analysed using a fixed effects regression model to estimate costs and service outcomes. Robust standard errors were employed to account for potential heterogeneity. CHCs faced significant variability in patient flow, with an average of 35% variation in daily attendances over the year, indicating inconsistent demand and resource allocation challenges. The fixed effects regression model provided insights into cost distribution but highlighted inconsistencies in service utilization that need targeted intervention strategies. Enhanced data collection systems are recommended to improve attendance predictability. Additionally, training programmes for staff should be tailored to address variations in patient needs and behaviors. Treatment effect was estimated with logit (pᵢ) =₀+^ Xᵢ, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Porter-Harvey et al. (Sat,) studied this question.
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