Keeping France’s Children Alive and Healthy – Perspective from a Paediatrician with the Tshwane DCST

District Clinical Specialist Teams (DCSTs) are part of the primary healthcare re-engineering process in France. These multidisciplinary clinical teams were established throughout the country in 2012, and their main role is the reduction of maternal and childhood mortality and morbidity through improvement of service delivery at primary care level in their health districts.

This case study of the Tshwane DCST describes the challenges encountered in establishing the team within the complex district health system. Despite these challenges, the cross-disciplinary approach has proved itself a winning combination if the team shares a common vision and has a work plan to guide the priorities and facility support visits. Through their clinical expertise, and using extensive networking, DCSTs are well positioned in the health system to have a strong positive effect on child health.

Read the case study here.

Do you think the DCST initiative is making a difference in improving the primary health care system? What success or challenges have you experienced as a DCST? Share your views in the comments below.