Publications
HST provides free electronic access to over 500 health systems research related reports, publications and papers. Close to 300 of these are publications that have been commissioned and funded by the Trust. Topics include among others district systems development, drug supply management, human resource development, informatics, legislation, finance, environmental health, mental health, lessons learnt, nutrition and sexually transmitted diseases / HIV/AIDS. The main publication of the HST is the annual South African Health Review. From 2005 all HST publications will be available in low resolution only. To explore the range of publications HST offers use the Advanced search to search using a variety of criteria.

The maldistribution of health personnel within the health system in South Africa is well documented. The fewest doctors are found in areas where the need is greatest. To improve the supply of professional health personnel in under-served areas, the Ministry of Health, after consultation with the various professional bodies and interested stakeholders, introduced compulsory community service for doctors in 1998.

Despite all the efforts made by the Department of Health (DoH) to consult, community service for doctors was conceived amid controversy.

Community service has, however, emerged as a symbol of the commitment of the health department and medical establishment to equity in the health services.

The main objective of the DoH in introducing community service is to ensure improved provision of health services to all the citizens of our country. In the process this also provides our young professionals with an opportunity to develop skills, acquire knowledge, behaviour patterns and critical thinking that will help them in their professional development.

There are however other issues that it is hoped this policy will address.