Here, we present perceptions concerning the competence of primary healthcare providers, as most other headings relate to the competence and behaviours of supervisors. Supervisors generally commended the work of providers and acknowledged their stressful working conditions, including shortage of staff. At the same time, some supervisors spoke in generalising or derogatory terms about HC nurses’ competence level, such as a supervisor in FGD1: ‘We can call these employees [HC staff] “second hand employees” or “second category employees”, because those who are in the first category are able to come and work at the hospital.’ (S2, male, A0 degree)