48. Health Services Management Unit, Palestinian Ministry of Health. Health Management Training Needs Assessment - West Bank and Gaza Strip. Ramallah: Palestinian National Authority, 1996: 53 pp.

An assessment of needs for training in health management for hospital and primary health care managers is provided. The study combined qualitative methods (workshops, interviews with general directors at MOH, interviews with educational institutions) and quantitative methods (structured interviews with medical and nursing directors and administrators in hospitals and primary health care facilities). Surveyed health facilities included governmental, NGO and UNRWA clinics. Among the main managerial problems identified is the lack of managerial skills or training for most managers, the absence of updated and relevant job descriptions, and the weak health information system. Recommended strategies for action emphasize the importance of having the political will to carry out the necessary changes in the management and policy field. An appropriate approach to managing the change process is required. Developing a formal job description and a clear organizational structure should be a part of a broad-based training program. The report suggests focusing on only one or two major activities at a time within a systematic planning process.