HEALTH PLANNERS AND SERVICE PROVIDER PERSPECTIVES ON THE CHALLENGES OF IMPLEMENTING LEGISLATION ON COMMUNITY-BASED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Nomvula E Sibanyoni; Jeanette E Maritz

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/226

Authors

Nomvula E Sibanyoni UNISA
Jeanette E Maritz UNISA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/226

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to explore and describe health planners and service provider perspectives on the challenges of implementing legislation on community-based mental health services (CBMS). A qualitative design was followed. The total number of participants was 15. Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews and analysed inductively. The findings indicated that there were different views on the implementation of legislation on CBMS among the participants. The majority of participants agreed that there were challenges in the implementation of legislation. These challenges included poor political will and implementation, prioritisation of mental health and CBMS, stigma and mental health issues, shortage of resources (human and funds) for mental health and the lack of intersectoral collaboration. There is a need to educate and inform the stakeholders on the legislation and policies to facilitate implementation. Mental health and CBMS needs to be prioritised. For programmes to be implemented and provided, the position in the priority list plays an important role. Greater trust and enhanced cooperation between stakeholders are needed. Lastly, adequate resources are required for implementation of CBMS.

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