Expenditure on health research in South Africa, 1991/1992.

OBJECTIVE

To determine expenditure on health research in South Africa in 1991/1992.

DESIGN

Data from the financial statements of large statutory councils conducting research in South Africa, as well as other relevant reports, particularly the Department of National Education's (NATED) survey of research institutions, were analysed.

RESULTS

A total of R198.7 million was spent on health research in 1991/1992, 56.1% by the tertiary education sector and 20.7% by the Medical Research Council. Only 1.1% of expenditure on health was spent on research. Less than 9% of health research expenditure by tertiary educational institutions is classified within the category of 'comprehensive medicine' (which includes community health, epidemiology and nutrition), whereas 82% of expenditure by autonomous government institutions is so classified.

CONCLUSIONS

Given that expenditure on health research in South Africa is relatively low by international standards, an increase in expenditure by both the public and private sectors should be considered. Given the scarcity of research resources, there should be adequate planning, co-ordination, and particularly prioritisation of resource allocations, so that research can be directed towards addressing the country's health needs.