Implementation of Health Operational Fund for MCH Program at Sudiang Health Center Makassar

Abstract

The Health Operational Assistance Fund (BOK) is a non-physical special allocation fund from the government aimed at strengthening promotive and preventive health services at the community health center (puskesmas) level. The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) program is one of the priority targets of BOK funding. This study aims to explore the implementation of BOK in supporting the MCH program at the Sudiang Health Center, Makassar. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with in-depth interviews involving key, primary, and additional informants. The instruments used were interview guidelines and observation sheets. The findings revealed that BOK implementation followed the technical guidelines, with full fund absorption utilized for educational outreach to pregnant women, home visits, and monitoring of child growth and development. However, several obstacles were encountered, such as delays in fund disbursement, rejection of proposed essential activities, and delayed execution of planned programs. These findings highlight the need for improved coordination between health centers and related agencies, as well as regular evaluations to ensure alignment between technical instructions and field needs. The results of this study are expected to provide valuable input for local policy makers in optimizing BOK fund management for better health service delivery.