World Bank encourages equal access to health services

A new study has shown that there is a “ray of hope” for reducing inequality in the use of health services.

Despite the limited effectiveness of previous policy initiatives, the new survey of 14 successful health sector programs points towards several recurring themes which seem to lead to positive results. 

 “Success can be achieved through programs developed with an empirical and exploratory spirit, crafted with input from the poor, responsive to specific local realities, and continually evaluated and adjusted to better achieve their goals,” the report says.

Stressing that there is no universal policy formula for addressing inequalities, the report adds that the policies chosen were varied and localised whilst at the same time sharing similar features when it came to the strategy and attitude adopted.  

“Unique solutions were obtained variously from government intervention, public-private partnerships, improving the supply of services, community involvement, or changes in resource allocations,” the report adds.

Local, customised solutions were important characteristics identified by the report, as were the courage to find new ways of operating, patience and a long-term perspective.

“Successful programs take into account the specific local causes of inequality, the existing capacities of the health sector, and the cultural context influencing the poor and the health system,” the report says.

The study of 14 health sector policies was written by Abdo S. Yazbeck of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (The World Bank).

To downloaded the report in full, please follow this link.