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.

In some cases the definitions presented here require additional clarification. These proposed changes require review and agreement to ensure consistency of collected information. Not all of the indicators presented here are rates. Some are descriptive and are listed under the heading numerator or description'. Many indicators are rates and is important to verify the accuracy of both the numerator and denominator.

Although not always specified here, data should be collected by variables that will facilitate prevention and control. Standardization of categories including age and race/ethnicity will be addressed. This document also presents possible data sources for each indicator. Most indicators require information on the numbers of births, deaths, and population size. This arises from vital records collected by the Department of Home Affairs and the Central Statistical Service. Vital statistics data may be supplemented by health or facility surveys. Many other indicators require health facility or other surveys. Plans should be developed to conduct these surveys in a uniform manner that will facilitate comparison throughout the provinces.