GO TO: SPEAKERS
Health care is a fundamental investment, one that can unlock human capital and economic dividends for countries, but the challenge to bring more care to more people requires political will, financing and partnership.
This was the main theme at the “Transforming Challenge into Action: Expanding Health Coverage for All” event where World Bank Group president Ajay Banga announced an ambitious plan to support countries in delivering quality, affordable health services to 1.5 billion people by 2030.
During a fireside chat moderated by international broadcast journalist Shakuntala Santhiran, Ajay Banga and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, World Health Organization spoke about the challenges to expanding health coverage and the urgency of doing so.
Banga said the new plan would “widen the aperture” of the Bank’s priorities from maternal and child health services to the health needs of people over their lifetimes, a move that also responds to rapidly aging populations, the surge in non-communicable diseases and the associated health care costs.
Following the fireside, Shun’ichi Suzuki, Minister of Finance, Japan announced the establishment of a Universal Health Care (UHC) Knowledge Hub to enhance health and finance ministries' capacity, an initiative also supported by the Bank and the World Health Organization.
Two separate panel discussions ensued with country and civil society leaders discussing what it will take to build resilient health systems, expand coverage and improve the health of populations so that countries can thrive. Panelists discussed the importance of political will, affordability, country ownership, partnerships with the private sector and the need for more financing in reaching universal health coverage for all.
Join the conversation on social media #WBGMeetings
Welcome
01:53 Fireside Chat / Insights and Perspectives
With World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and the Director-General of the World Health Organization Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
21:38 Remarks / National Strategies and Initiatives
Reflecting on universal healthcare priorities and capacity-building efforts with Mr. Shun’ichi Suzuki, Japan's Minister of Finance.
27:15 Panel 1 / Achieving UHC: Opportunities and Challenges
Hear from Dr. Muhammad Pate, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, and Dr. Senait Fisseha, as they share insights and experiences from Nigeria, Indonesia, and The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation.
47:10 Panel 2 / How can we better finance health?
Explore new approaches to health financing with Dr. Mohamed Maait, Egypt's Minister of Finance, as well as industry and civil society leaders Lamia Tazi and Joanne Carter.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Hello and welcome to the 2024 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and IMF. We have a full room here. I'm Shakuntala Santhiran, Shaks for short. Over the next hour, we'll discuss how countries can accelerate progress toward universal health coverage, where everyone, everywhere has access to quality, affordable health care when they need it. You can share your thoughts on this topic at any time using the hashtag #WBGMeetings. We have experts in multiple languages standing by to answer your questions online at live.worldbank.org. Please, post your questions in the live chat if you're joining us online, or by using the QR codes displayed on the chairs in front of you and around the room if you're here with us. Now, later in the program, we'll hear from ministers of Health and Finance, leaders in the private sector, civil society, and philanthropy to explore the issues and opportunities. First up, let's get the perspective of two people very familiar with the topic who understand what we need to make urgent progress. Please, join me in welcoming Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who's Director General of the World Health Organization. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Greetings, gentlemen. Thank you so very much for being here with us today. Ajay, first, quickly, you've been doing a lot of work fixing the plumbing of the World Bank Group. Why and what's the aim of that?
[Ajay Banga]
This plumbing question is getting asked a few times, and I think that's because I made the statement that I believe that if you make the Bank better and more effective, quicker, faster, simpler to navigate, then that allows you to raise your ambition on the kind of things that you can do because your ability to execute gets enhanced many times over by the quality of your foundation. So, I use plumbing to describe it because I say that you can't build a new house with poor plumbing. That is the logic. What we're trying to do is to improve the speed, turnaround time. It used to take us 19 months to get a project approved from the time we started talking about it to approval, we're down by three months. We want to bring down another three months by the middle of next year. If we get it down to a year, that's really good, given the complexity of what we deal with. We're trying to do things with combining our structure in different countries, 20 countries. We're going to put one country ahead on top of IFC, MIGA, IBRD all together. So, our client has to deal with one person, one World Bank Group, and cut out some of the silos that otherwise are visible. We're working on capital adequacy, change the Vision and Mission of the Bank to include Livable Planet. There's a whole series of these partnerships with the multilateral banks. We're about to launch a co-financing platform, a digital one, which will enable all the MDBs to work together on co-financing deals. We're looking at standardizing standards across procurement. I mean, I could keep going. It's all the plumbing. It's what makes the bank and its people work quicker, faster, better.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
So, streamlining everything.
[Ajay Banga]
Right.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Here we are today talking about health with the world facing so many pressing issues. Why are we talking about health care today?
[Ajay Banga]
Because I think health care is foundational. I think that at the end of the day, if you look at people struggling with either the cost of health care or the inability to access health care, it leads to the worst possible outcomes. I went to Indonesia and saw the work they're doing on stunting. The reality is that a child in the first 1,000 days of their existence doesn't get the right kind of nutrition, that has an impact economically forever for that child. They earn between 15% and 20% less every year, forever. If you look at climate change and what it's doing to heat impact on diseases, another issue. Tedros can talk about this ad nauseam, but 2 billion people in this world do not have access to health care in a way that they get insurance or they get it free. They end up paying for it out of pocket. That puts them in a cycle of poverty for a long time to come. We've got to fix what is a fundamental requirement for human existence in the form of health care, and we have to make it available at a price that's affordable. That's not that complex to get around your head. It's hard to get done, but you will hear from the Japanese Finance Minister in a short while, they knew how to do it well. And that's what we are trying to do as well.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
So, “no health, no wealth,” as the saying goes. Thank you for spelling that out for us, Ajay. So, Dr. Tedros, where does the world stand on universal health coverage that you've long championed?
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus]
Now, thank you. First of all, I would like to thank my friend Ajay for inviting me to this very important session. And second, I fully agree with him, health is the foundation. As you rightly said, “health is wealth.” That's why Ajay and the World Bank takes it seriously. And we're very, very glad to say this. By the way, our partnership is increasing from time to time now. We partner on UHC, we partner on Global Preparedness and Monitoring Board, we partner on Pandemic Fund, we partner on also leading the Health and Finance Task Force, you name it. It's a long list, by the way. So, thank you so much for your leadership, Ajay. And on the status of UHC, 140 countries have recognized health as a fundamental right in their constitutions. This is very important because it's recognizing health as a fundamental human right, which is a political choice that can help us to do the rest, financing or everything. So, that's good. Then the second part is, since the birth of WHO, that's 76 years ago, life expectancy has increased from 46 to now 74, average. This is good progress. Of course, this is living condition improved, improvements in medicine, improvements in public health. It's overall development. It shows overall development. We're progressing, but if you see the SDG goals directly, if you compare it with the SDG goals, we're off track.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Yeah, very.
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus]
I don't think without a very serious catch-up, we may even reach the SDGs. So, we have to work harder, and that's why we're partnering with the World Bank and other partners, the whole UN, with countries, especially countries at the center, to push forward to achieve the SDG goals.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
So, partnerships, clearly, key, Dr. Tedros, just talk us through quickly. What are some of the key challenges to achieving universal health coverage?
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus]
So, the challenges are twofold. One, in terms of service coverage, and second, financial. I think Ajay had already said that. In terms of service coverage, 4.5 million do not have access to basic services, and 2 billion, Ajay said it, face financial hardship, trying to seek service. And even as a result, some of them descend into poverty. So, that's one of the challenges. Coverage, the first one, the 4.5, but also, the financial hardship, which is the 2 billion who can’t afford. These are the two main ones. But of course, there are problems like shortage of the workforce that we need to address. There is, of course, a long list of challenges.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
And overall aging population as well.
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus]
Aging population, urbanization, and now with the pandemics, climate and health because the climate crisis is a health crisis. So, the major trends and problems actually that complicate the health problem.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
So, those are some very stark figures and daunting challenges. So, Ajay, in the face of this, what is the World Bank Group doing to support countries to get health care to more people?
[Ajay Banga]
By the way, one thing I understand. One thing I would like to say, the issue of, for example, workforce shortages is also an opportunity because if you think about Africa, and Tedros is an Ethiopian, and if you think about the whole continent, the number of young people who are going to be looking for jobs in the coming 10 to 15 years, one of the ways to give them a really good job is give them the chance to get skilled to provide the kind of service that's going to be required from the investment we're going to make in the coming 10 years in this space. He's absolutely correct. It is a problem today, but we also see it, both of us, as a way forward for young people. Back to your point, what are we going to do? The Bank has been working in 100 countries for a while on what I would call “maternal and neonatal” kind of effort to improve the delivery of care to women and young babies, and they've done a decent job of doing so. The question really is if you want to widen your aperture to include the diseases across adolescents and older age. So, if you just think about heart attacks, diabetes, blood pressure, those are diseases that are challenging, in older life as well. So, if you want to broaden the access for those, then you have to widen your aperture to include that. And that's what we are trying to do in this effort, reach 1.5 billion people over the coming period with the WHO, with other partners, and make that happen by 2030. Reach them means really reach them. I don't mean reach as in you put up a center and everybody in the area is counted. This is actually touching the person with a medical appointment, either physical or telehealth, working on this expanded range of noncommunicable diseases, and maybe in those 100 countries, but maybe expanded geographies in those countries or new countries as well. That's the effort we're going to try and put in by now in 2030.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
That's one and a half billion people in essentially five years. How are you going to do that? [Ajay Banga] Six years, but who's counting? [Panelists laugh]
[Ajay Banga]
Six years. How are we going to do that? [Shakuntala Santhiran] How are you going to do that?
[Ajay Banga]
How are we going to do that? I think it takes a lot of hard work, a lot of knowledge, a lot of financing, and a lot of partnerships. Let me quickly walk through a little bit of it. Financing is the obvious one. We've got money, yes. We're a money bank and a knowledge bank, but even the money we can put to work will never be enough. We're talking about putting to work 50% more money per year than what we used to spend in healthcare pre the pandemic. You're still going to need money from governments. You're going to need money from the private sector. Let me walk you through this a little bit. If you talk about the countries that are at the lowest end of affordability, mostly IDA countries, they spend relatively little amounts of money per person, 21 dollars per person per year on health care. That's not going to get you health care workers in remote areas that we're talking about. We have to give them share financing, concessional and grant financing. But if you're a middle-income country, you may have more money available, but you may not have the right regulatory policies to create the multiplier that you want to create by also bringing in the private sector, but also clarifying how to get more energy going into this space. I think there we can help with incentivizing them through our money to create the right regulatory platforms, the right policies. Tedros can talk to you about regulatory policies all day long, but that could help a lot. If you get the private sector involved, once they have some clarity, you could do things like focusing them on the manufacturing of PPE, manufacturing of essential medicines, something that Tedros had a nightmare of during COVID. Ask him, he will tell you. If you could also get them involved with, for example, putting the right vitamin supplements into processed foods so that you enhance health right from the basic consumption. So, there's a number of things. Some of these are more likely to happen in some countries, some in others. The point is this financing has to be catered for the country and its stage of development. In the same way, knowledge has to be catered for the country and its stage of development. If it's basic knowledge, are you talking about putting our primary health center or a hospital, which is better at what stage of development? Tough choice, but a conversation to be had. If it's later discussions and conversations about, does this country need geographic expansion? Does this country need new skills? Does this country need affordability? What's the logic of what that country needs to break through its barriers on delivering its share of the 1.5 billion? That's kind of the knowledge part. The partnership part, there are a lot of people in the audience. I'm sure Gavi is here and others are here. They're all part of this game. You kind of need to bring all shoulders to the wheel. But since we've got Tedros here, he has what I would call “domain expertise” beyond limit, technical expertise beyond limit. What do we bring? We bring a diversification of knowledge. We understand water, we understand climate, we understand agriculture, we understand different things. We understand how those connect to health challenges. We can bring that knowledge as a partner, not just our financing, not just our ability to advise governments on regulatory policy, but our ability to help even him understand the intersections between these different causes of health care problems in the intertwined challenges that we are going through. So, it's a long answer. It needs a lot of work. It's going to be really hard work between now and 2030. I'm sure we will make mistakes along the way, but we are determined to get this done.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
You certainly got your work cut out for you, right? So, partnerships, financing, and the sharing of knowledge, all vital. Dr. Tedros, what do you hope to see in global health in five years? Or six years?
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus] [Laughs]
In six years.
[Shakuntala Santhiran laughs]
[Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus]
By the way, the two things which are very important with regards to making progress are, one, a political commitment. I can add to that. Of course, financial commitment also, you had said that. Political commitment, we have 140 countries who recognize health as a human right, and we have 140 countries who recognize health as a fundamental human right, and we hope the other countries will do, because health is a political choice. When they do that, then the rest comes, including finance. Then, the second is the financial commitment. In the financial commitment, there is a way. There are finance ministers here, and we expect you to increase public spending. Commitment to Universal Health Coverage or Health For All, of course, it's ambitious, but it's possible. One example that comes to mind is the United Kingdom. After the Second World War, when its economy was in its knees, it actually declared Universal Health Coverage. The Lord Beveridge model started immediately after the Second World War. So, economic status cannot be an issue. You can start with what you have. The key is the commitment, and then you can build up. So, I think the political commitment and finance are important. Then what do I expect in the next? Of course, I said earlier, to get better or to add years into your life, life expectancy, then we need, especially to focus on mothers and children, to reduce mortality. It can be done. By the way, Ajay raised that when I was Minister of Health in Ethiopia, just in a few years, with the introduction of primary health care, that maternal and under-five mortality started to decline significantly. That's what I wish in the next five, six years. Still, there could be a significant cut in many of the countries, especially who have high burden of maternal and child health. This could be done through a combination of promoting health, especially addressing the root causes of ill health, focusing on the determinants, because many of the health problems are in the food we eat, in the air we breathe, in the environment we live in, our lifestyle, and so on. We should start from there. The second is the access issue we said, Universal Health Coverage, but with primary health care at the foundation, because primary health care is key to cover the basic services. More than 80%, by the way, can be covered using primary health care. Primary health care is also the ears and eye of the health system, and it can help us to prevent outbreaks, but at the same time, if not to detect early and manage. So, investment in primary health care is key. From my own experience in Ethiopia, World Bank was a major player in building the primary health care, which made a good impact. Of course, the pandemic preparedness is very important, and we're investing in that. Then, investment in science, data, and technology is very important. And, like the World Bank, reforming WHO itself to be fit for purpose will be very important. But all this, the center is the country. What do we do at the country level and what capacity do we build at the country level and how do we help countries to achieve is crucial. At the end of the day, the ownership is the countries. We are only here to help. The World Bank and WHO, that's exactly what we're saying. The results come at the country level, I cannot say we'll get this result, but sure, if we can partner effectively and if countries can commit on and take it as a political choice, and if we can support them to the fullest we can, we can turn the tide and hopefully we can achieve SDGs, because that's what we aim for, and we don't need to have another goal. Let's stick to that and make it happen. I'm hopeful that we can do that.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
A resounding call to action. Dr. Tedros, Ajay, thank you very much indeed for highlighting not only the challenges that we're facing, [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
but also, the enormous opportunity that we can realize if people have access to quality affordable health care. It's not just the individual, but also, communities and entire countries who will benefit from such investments. Thank you both again. Now, Japan is a leader in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage and understands the level of partnership and collaboration it will take to make progress. We are honored to be joined now by His Excellency, Shun’ichi Suzuki. [Speaking in foreign language] This is Japan's Minister of Finance. [Audience applauds] [Speaking in foreign language]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you, sir. Thank you.
[Shun’ichi Suzuki]
First of all, I would like to thank President Banga and Director General Tedros for a very insightful discussion. It is my great honor to make a short statement on Japan's efforts to promote UHC. Japan has long been emphasizing the critical importance of UHC as a foundation for human capital development and sustainable growth. Japan has also been advocating that finance-health collaboration is essential to achieve UHC. For this reason, Japan hosted the first G20 joint Finance-Health Ministers’ Meeting in 2019 at the emergence of the G20, Osaka summit. In this context, I am pleased today to see various stakeholders, including finance and health experts meeting to discuss UHC. Japan has been closely working with the World Bank and WHO in supporting developing countries towards the achievement of UHC, including through financial contributions to technical assistance in this area. In order to further accelerate our efforts, I am delighted to announce today that Japan, together with the Bank and the WHO, will establish a UHC knowledge hub in Japan in 2025. [Audience applauds]
[Shun’ichi Suzuki]
The hub will support knowledge sharing on UHC as well as capacity building for finance and health authorities. It leverages the expertise of the Bank and the WHO while drawing on Japan's experience, such as our efforts to maintain quality UHC amid an aging and declining population. At the Bank, the discussion on IDA21 is ongoing. IDA plays a crucial role in mainstreaming UHC in low-income countries. It is imperative to help them secure adequate financing resources for a well-functioning health care system. Japan expects that IDA21 maintains UHC as one of the policy priorities. Today, I look forward to a lively debate about the challenges and the policy efforts to achieve UHC in each country. Building on today's discussion, Japan will continue to help step up efforts to promote UHC across the world. Thank you. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran speaking in foreign language] [Shakuntala Santhiran]
Many thanks, Minister Suzuki, for your important message and for Japan's continued commitment to global health.
[Shun’ichi Suzuki]
Yes, yes, thank you.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you very much, sir. Thank you. Now, we have three questions for you, our audience, here in person and watching online, not just to test your knowledge, but also to help illustrate the scope of the challenge. Please, use the QR codes to participate, and we'll share the correct answers with you later in the event. Question number one. It's a sad reality that women in low-income countries are more likely to die due to childbirth compared to women in high-income countries. But by how much? Is it 4 times more likely, 14 times, 34 times, or is it 140 times more likely? Our second question for you. There's a shortage of health care workers in countries everywhere. What percentage of countries have fewer than one doctor for every 1,000 people? Is it 3% of countries, 18%, 33%, or is it 43% of countries? Our third question, what do you think is the single most important thing that can help accelerate progress toward universal health coverage? Please, let us know in just one word. We'll share all your ideas later in this event. So, achieving Universal Health Coverage brings opportunities and challenges, as we've heard, and will require country reforms. Let's now welcome His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Pate, Nigeria's Minister of Health. Her Excellency, Sri Mulyani Indrawati Minister Finance of Indonesia, and Dr. Senait Fisseha, Vice President of Global Programs at The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation. [Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate] Very good.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Welcome to you all.
[Sri Mulyani Indrawati]
Thank you.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you very much for taking the time to be here. Muhammad, if we could start with you, please. You are leading your country through critical health reforms. What's your vision and how is it going to change health coverage for Nigeria's poorest and most vulnerable people?
[Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate]
We are a young and fast-growing country, and our health outcomes have been improving over time, but there are other elements like noncommunicable diseases that are rising as the fastest-growing segment for morbidity and mortality. Under the President's Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, we're expanding access to quality basic health care through the primary health care system, expanding the primary health care centers that are functional from 8,800 to 17,000, retraining 120,000 frontline health workers and enabling them with digital technology to function, expanding the affordability through the Vulnerable Groups Fund to ensure the poorest and most vulnerable are able to afford the services that they need, to improve maternal and child health, immunization, as well as deal with other elements of the evolving epidemiology that we are seeing of hypertension, diabetes, and other diseases. That is the approach that we are taking so that we can guarantee basic health care to all Nigerians over time, to raise the domestic resources, and to work with our partners in a sector-wide manner as a federal system between the federal government and the state government, as well as development partners and civil society, so that we pull in the same direction to improve health outcomes. Over time, we expect that Nigeria's health outcomes trajectory will improve, that life expectancy can improve, and that maternal mobility and mortality will reduce because many of the diseases are actually preventable with simple things that can be delivered at the primary health care centers. On our path to UHC, these reforms are getting us closer to saving more lives, reducing physical and financial pain, producing health, and to do it for all Nigerians so that we don't leave anyone behind. That's what we are undertaking right now in Nigeria.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
That's the vision. That's the goal. How's it going? What challenges are you facing in implementing and also sustaining these reforms?
[Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate]
It's been an exciting journey. I think we've got the highest level of political leadership from the President. And as Tedros says, it's a political choice. Nigeria made a political choice to prioritize health investment and the well-being of Nigerians. So, we're seeing that ease in the path. State governors are joining along, and development partners like the Bank, like the WHO and others also are rallying around this effort. Challenges of human resources are certainly ones that are not limited to us. We've doubled the intakes for our physicians, nurses, midwives, pharmacists to increase the production of health workforce in our country, to redistribute them, and also, to create the enabling environment so that they can stay and function. That's one challenge. But financing is a key one. The financing gap that we have, certainly, we're very encouraged when we hear Ajay mentioned 1.5 billion, and that's a significant commitment by the Bank to actually do that. But then backing it with the resources that are needed, you can scale. For Nigeria, for instance, we can deliver 100 million out of that 1.5 billion if the resources are there. We're really seeing appetite from our development partners to contribute. Some of these are doing this quietly, and some of them are actually working programmatically, in addition to a technical support, to get us closer to our aspiration as laid out by the President in his agenda.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
It's an immense task, but one that needs doing. Mulyani, we know that getting health care in many countries' countries comes at a very high cost. It puts a heavy financial burden on individuals, on families, especially the poor. Why is this of concern? Why should this be of concern to a finance minister?
[Sri Mulyani Indrawati]
Well, I think for the finance minister, the focus of the quality of human capital is very important. At the end of the day, if the economy and the country have a human capital with a better quality, whether on education and health, that definitely is going to create much better quality of growth, inclusive, equal growth in this case. And for countries like Indonesia, with the young demographic dividend, just like Nigeria, this is very important, investing at the very early stage. And that's why Indonesia is putting quite significant resources, both on education and health. And on health, we have the legislation which is mandatory for us to create a universal health access. That's very costly, certainly, if you look at the cost, but the rate of return is definitely very high. Indonesia currently has 95%, which they are all the people registered on a health insurance system, the biggest single player of the health insurance in Indonesia. And that will provide, especially the budget, our fiscal policy tools, providing support for the poorest families and the members of the family to be registered free of pay. That means we are going to be the ones who pay, and that provides an access to education without out-of-pocket for those poor families. The problem now is more on a demand side. It's created with those. Then, supply constraints. And that's why reform on supply side is going to be very important. And this is one of the most important reforms of health in Indonesia. Indonesia is a very big country, 273 million, comprising of local governments, and health is actually delegated to the local government. You can have an uneven quality of health services across Indonesia. That's why providing a good support, technical capacity, competency, human resources, medical workers, I think that's going to be very important. Currently, Indonesia is launching this comprehensive reform on health, which is supported by many of the MDBs, and that's why the World Bank is now hosting this talk show with us.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
To conduct, to make these reforms happen, you need financing, and Indonesia has been quite successful in mobilizing financing for these reforms. How have you done so?
[Sri Mulyani Indrawati]
First, I think the MDBs really look at the country, and they love to have a country who has a strong ownership, they call it, and leadership. The Minister of Health is important. They have a good Minister of Health with leadership, they know what they are doing, do the reform. We passed the reform legislation, which is very important for the Indonesia health system. This totally overhauled in terms of how we are going to educate the medical doctors, how we are going to manage the local government hospitals as well as health services, especially on a primary level. Then also how this is going to be connected with the insurance system. These have all become one important reform, which is not only curative but also preventive. This is one integrated from the lifestyle into early detection of the disease up to the whole services from the primary, secondary, rural level hospital Of course, we have to make sure that people have a better health and lifestyle so that it can create a much better… That kind of ownership as well as leadership and a comprehensive health vision is very important to gain confidence from the source of funding, specifically the MDBs. The MDBs, which is a combination of not only World Bank, but also Islamic Development Bank, Asian Development Bank. What is good about this combination of co-financing is they are all now looking at the procurement system, one combined simple process, with President Ajay Banga already launching this plumbing improvement by having it [being] simpler, faster; and hopefully that’s true for us, so that is going to deliver a much better and also supporting the reform in a credible way. Because legislation has been passed, the discussion with many stakeholders is already being conducted, and so, we are going to then support it with the financing.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you, Mulyani. Now, Senait, you have been in the field of global health for many years. You're a physician yourself and a globally recognized leader in reproductive health and rights. How do you think we can collectively do more with the funding that's currently available for health?
[Senait Fisseha]
Thank you, Shaks. I don't think any of the things I would say would come as a surprise, at least to this audience. What we see globally is vertical programming. I think the single most impactful way to maximize our limited resources is to fund a primary healthcare system instead of individualized vertical diseases. We, as you rightly said, I work in reproductive health. Imagine a woman seeking care, going to one clinic for HIV, another clinic for contraception, and somewhere else for her children's immunization. So, rather than doing that, if we pool our resources and essentially do what Minister Pate was talking about and invest it in strengthening the health system and provide integrated service delivery, we can push our resources further. We at the foundation, at The Buffett Foundation, have seen that. We are a single-issue foundation committed to advancing the health and well-being and rights of women and girls. But by funding governments and strengthening health systems and responding to the government's mandate, we have seen that we can reach many more women at scale, and the services are scalable and sustainable. Unfortunately, global funding doesn't work like that, but I think there are examples we can glean. If you look at the Bank's investments, for example, at the global financing facility, and take workforce as an example. If you focus on workforce, you're primarily focusing on ensuring essential health services are available, but these are also the tools for strong preparedness, for pandemic preparedness. If you look at climate response, first-line responders are healthcare providers. And a shout out to my colleagues in Women in Global Health for so long who've been advocating, women are the frontline providers. So, 90% of healthcare providers are women. So, by investing in them and paying them and creating a career ladder, you're also then working on gender equity. So, I think there's just a lot we could do to pull these strands together and maximize our resources by putting it in a systems lens as opposed to an individual disease lens approach. Thanks. [Shakuntala Santhiran] Thank you, Senait. [Audience applause]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
So, Muhammad, you've seen this issue from many different perspectives, from the global level to the country level from the private sector now to the public sector. You're a medical doctor as well. You've worked in an emergency room. You know this issue inside out. If we were to meet in one year from now, what do you hope will have shifted in the global and country discussions on universal health coverage?
[Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate]
Well, first on the UHC agenda, I think even before COVID, we knew that we were not on track at the pace that we are making progress. Pandemic came and drilled us even further. So going forward, continuing on the same path will not meet our objectives. So, there are some shifts that are needed. And with countries at the center, and what we're trying to do in Nigeria is articulate a division, a direction, defragmented the landscape with the subnational levels also aligned with us, and having our supportive global partners come to back us up with financing, with technical support, but following leadership of government and using national systems that are more sustainable, and let's hold each other accountable. If that shift occurs where we're really real from the global perspective to really deploy the resources, then we will see the shift in progress with UHC. So as long as we continue with the model that we had, where, as Senait mentioned, we have vertical funding, hyper fragmentation and various interests here and there, the reality is for the pregnant woman, for the child who is sick, they go to the primary health care center. They want to be assessed, they want the health worker to see them, they want the commodities to be there, they want to be able to afford the care. An integrated perspective is what is needed. In the case of Nigeria, the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, which was launched by our President, is precisely trying to do that, to pull everyone in one direction, subnational units, development partners, but with a laser focus on results and results at scale, not results in one district or one state, and also results focusing on the most vulnerable, the poorest who are left out. That's really the shift that I hope we can begin to see in the next year or so. I will also reiterate for us, for the Bank colleagues that are here, for GFF who are doing an amazing job with us and many other partners that are also trying to support Nigeria in this journey, that we can put on the table at least 100 million population that can be reached with access to basic health care services. If the Bank is really going to go all out for this, Nigeria, now this is where we are and this is where we are going. Thank you. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you, Muhammed. Senait, last words to you. What gives you hope? Is there anything that gives you hope in the pursuit for global health?
[Senait Fisseha]
Sure. We're living in very fragile times, and it's very easy to give up hope. But the truth is there's a lot to be hopeful for, especially post-pandemic. I think the global narrative and conversation on global health has shifted in such a way that we cannot go back. And for me, what I see at this table, the leadership from the Global South, gives me incredible hope. The leadership that I see in international institutions, seeing someone like Tedros, who delivered health care for millions of people as a health minister leading the WHO, or Juan Pablo [Uribe], who is a Health Minister in Colombia sitting at the GFF and the Health Nutrition and Population at the World Bank, tells us that the world, as we know, it is changing. I think external funders need to rally support and throw themselves around some of this change that we're seeing. Eighty years of development, I think we've made very, very little progress. I think you all agree with me. We've made progress, but when you look at our expenditure, it should have been much more. And part of it is this very colonial, outdated model of development is not fit for purpose for the time we're in. There's a lot of exciting stuff around the world. When I see what Minister Pate is doing in Nigeria, I recently met with President Ruto and his commitment to deploy 140,000 community health workers. Look at Rwanda boldly doubling down to quadruple workforce in four years because if they continue at the current pace, it will take 100 plus years to meet the WHO's minimum requirement for workforce. There's really strong momentum and leadership. How are we going to position ourselves to support this change, to support this dynamic, and invest in such a way that allows governments to have ownership? Again, the Bank, I know, needs to improve a lot of things, including speed, the way we manage projects, but it's a country-led ownership. It's a country-led process. I think I'm really hopeful, when I look at my own continent, and Africa CDC, and a new voice for Africa in a unified way to negotiate, we've seen what happened in the pandemics and who was left behind, so, I think it's really hopeful that the world as a whole is awakened to this new reality. I think if we all rally around that and reform ourselves to be fit for purpose, we can be inching closer to achieving UHC Health For All in the real meaningful way.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you very much indeed. Thank you all for joining us together to discuss this important issue with smart country reforms and strong government leadership. Change is possible. It's also clear that health and finance ministries need to be working together because without adequate financing, health care reforms cannot happen. Once again, thank you all very much indeed. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Now, before we invite our next panel to the stage, let's hear from some frontline health workers. We asked them to tell us one thing that has helped them improve health services for their patients. Here's what they said.
[Video]
[Dr. Chidinma S. Ononogbu]
And one of the greatest innovations that has been able to help with care is being able to get ambulance services on time. And that's one of the things that has helped us to be able to care for our patient urgently.
[Dr. Longtila M. Sangtam]
And another intervention that really helps us is the installation of solar light and rainwater harvesting facility for our center.
[Dr. Eustaquio Solis] [Speaks in Spanish] This telemedicine program also contributes to comprehensive patient care.
[Dr. Nii Ayikwei A. Addo-Quaye]
And one of the greatest innovations that has been able to help with this has been the electronic health management systems, which helps me to be able to have continuity of care with my patients, so that none are left behind them and we carry them along. [Shakuntala Santhiran] So very important to hear from these local heroes. They need our support to continue their good work, improving and expanding health care services to people in need. Now, here are the answers to our quiz. The numbers are staggering and really underscore the need for urgent action. Women in low-income countries are 34 times more likely to die from childbirth than women in higher-income countries, and 43% countries have fewer than one doctor for every thousand people. Clearly, we need better progress, and that will require more investments in health. To talk about this, please join me on stage now, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Maait, Minister of Finance of Egypt. Hello, sir. Lamia Tazi. Hello. Lamia is CEO of Sothema, a pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Morocco. And Dr. Joanne Carter, Executive Director of RESULTS… [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
An organization committed to ending poverty. We appreciate you being here, taking the time to be here with us today. We just heard Ajay announced that new commitment by the World Bank Group to help countries get health services to more people, one and a half billion people in five or six years. Joanne, you lead a global advocacy network in Africa, Asia, the US, Europe, and the Pacific. From where you sit, what will it take to really deliver on this, especially in terms of how we prioritize financing?
[Joanne Carter]
Yeah. Well, one thing I would say is I'm not quite sure we celebrated enough that target because the target that was just announced is a doubling of reach and a doubling of ambition. [Audience applauds]
[Joanne Carter]
I think we ought to just notice that and celebrate it. That's huge. What I would say, though, first thing is, ambitious targets need ambitious funding to match. Maybe you expected me to say that as an advocate. Of course, it starts with domestic budgets. Our advocacy partners across the world work with their governments, including parliamentary champions, to increase investment in health and nutrition, especially for the most marginalized. But I would say we urgently need also more external grant and concessional financing, especially for the lowest income countries and those facing debt distress. And that's why donor support for an ambitious, robust IDA replenishment, along with support for other key global health institutions, Gavi, the Global Fund, the World Health Organization, the Global Financing Facility is so critical. And also, prioritization of health and nutrition within IDA. And the other thing I would just say about targets is that targets can and should drive us, but we also know from experience that top-line targets, even bold ones, can actually obscure inequities. We need to ensure that financing reaches the most marginalized, and that only happens if it is specifically targeted to do so. To deliver on a goal like this, we need equity between countries and within countries. Just a few really quick thoughts about what we can do. You heard this earlier in the last panel, but a focus on investment in primary health care. Primary health care at the community level, especially for the most marginalized, has to be the leading edge of Universal Health Coverage investment. To measure IDA's impact on UHC, this has to be where we start, focusing on the numbers of people reached with primary health care and measuring it with an equity lens, increasing the share of resources going to the lowest quintiles. I would also just add that global health security matters, and it matters a lot, but it also matters how we define it. A narrow investment in health security does not reach UHC, and theoretical global readiness actually falls apart if we actually don't have the support and capacity at community level. Just really final point. We also need to build PHC starting there and then going further with human capital investments. I think it's also a real strength of IDA to start with primary health care, but also ensure access to emergency and higher-level care and nutrition supports across this spectrum and across sectors, social sector and program support and gender investments, because bold targets for UHC matter and why they don't guarantee equity? We can do things in targeting an investment that ensures equity. Country ambition needs investment, and that needs to include donors. [Shakuntala Santhiran] Thank you, Joanne. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Now, we've heard over and over today the need for political commitment. Minister Maait, what is your government doing to ensure that all Egyptians have access to effective health care?
[Mohamed Maait]
I think Egypt, although it was one of the first countries to introduce health insurance in 1962, the objective was to cover all the population. However, by that time, we found that the system did not cover all the population, it’d become financially unsustainable, inefficient, and also it didn't achieve its objective. So, four years ago, we decided to change and introduce universal health insurance with a different model and different design. And it is based on that we have to split the financing of the system from the affordability, or the ability of the Minister of Finance to provide finance or not that depends on how the budget is, to create an independent power and create all the sources needed to ensure that the system will be financially sustainable for a long time. This is number one. Number two, to ensure that we cover the whole families. Number three, to ensure that private and public sector will compete and to ensure that the government is no longer responsible to provide health care, but to buy health care for the citizen. If citizens want to receive the service, we have to create one public arm to provide the health care and to compete with the private sector. And a third organization, which will be the regulator. This regulator will be given the accreditation. So, three different organizations. One is a buyer, one is a public provider, one is the regulator accreditation and control of quality. Over the four years, we were able to start rolling out the new system with the government, and we created financing from different sources. One is social insurance contribution, be it by the employee and the employers. The second one, earmarking tax and tax coming from the budget. The third one is that the State will pay the contribution for those who are vulnerable or unable. Every one or two years, we review the system, from the actuarial point of view, to ensure this system is sustainable. We created a mechanism to ensure that the pricing of the health services will be attractive for the private sector and public sector at the same level. So, all will compete. So, the buyer is just buying the services for the citizen. Over the four years, we were able to cover around five governments out of 27, and we are continuing to do that. Satisfaction level. The Wallet Bank, JICA, and the others with us review the level of satisfaction and fix it if the system is having something in the design.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
You were saying the private sector and the public sector need to compete, but you mean in terms of pricing, right?
[Mohamed Maait]
They need to compete in satisfaction for the citizen because at the end, the citizen has the option to choose a provider, whether it is public or private. So, this is number one. Number two, they need not to compete on the main cost of the services, but on the quality of the services, because we have an independent committee which includes private, public, and the independent who price the services to the people. But again, we're choosing the slogan of “Money will follow the patient,” so, whenever the patient chooses to go for a specific provider, money will go to this provider. And we said the government is not responsible to provide the services, but to buy the services. And this helped us to ensure that citizens will go where they can find quality of their services and they are satisfied with that. The other thing is to ensure some independence for the financing sources. I worked as a First Deputy Minister of Health before I became Minister of Finance. I felt that leaving the Health Services at the mercy of the Minister of Finance is not a good idea.
[Shakuntala Santhiran laughs]
[Mohamed Maait]
After one year of working as a First Deputy Minister of Health, and I was awarded Bachelor of Medicine, after one year, so I said, “When I become a Minister of Finance, I will ensure not to put the system and the financing of the system depending on whether the budget is in good health so they can allocate more money or not, no.” We were able to build a huge reserve in the first four years of implementing such a system.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you, Minister Maait. Let's look more closely now at the private sector and the public sector. There are also opportunities to cooperate, right? Because they can complement each other. Lamia, you're there in the private sector. In your experience, how can the private and public sectors best complement each other? For example, in developing a vaccine, you need a partnership, don't you, between the private and public sectors?
[Lamia Tazi]
Yeah. Thanks, Shaks. Thanks for inviting me to have the chance to discuss about contribution of pharma industry in the health coverage. As you said, I'm leading a company which is located in Morocco. In 2021, His Majesty, Our King, decided to give the health coverage for all, which was a very courageous decision, knowing that we had to add 22 new inhabitants in Morocco in this health coverage. So, I was very pleased to be part of this big challenge. And it's exactly the title of the panel, “How to move the challenge to action.” And I think Morocco took the good decision to go there. And after two years, I can say that it is a success. This success cannot be here if there is no collaboration between public and private sector. Of course, the chance we had in Morocco is that we had a strong pharma industry before. Thanks to some incentives given by the public sector, by our Ministry of Health, we had some incentives to push local manufacturing. In 2021, 70% of the needs in medications were manufactured locally. Knowing that in health coverage, 30% of expenses are coming from medication. It was very important to have this availability of the products, and it was manufactured locally, which gives us, and give to the public, the availability and the accessibility to give the equity for all Moroccans. At the end, I can say that collaboration is very important. This local production affords the products in term of quantity because it was planned, it was discussed before. In terms of quantities and in terms also of kind of medication, knowing that our region may need some molecules that do not exist, perhaps in other countries. So local production was able to afford these kinds of molecules. In terms of vaccines, we discussed about vaccines. My company had the chance to be part of the big adventure in COVID. So, it was a real partnership between public and private. I had the chance to conduct the first clinical trials in vaccines in Morocco and then manufacture the vaccines before. Really, it was done by very close collaboration between pharma industry, between my company and the Ministry of Health.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
We're going to look more closely at the benefits of local production very shortly. First, Mr. Maait, is the government of Egypt working together with the private sector in any way?
[Mohamed Maait]
What I insist on when we designed this system, I said there was no possibility to success in ensuring this system will achieve its objectives without private sector. Why? When we move to some government rates, the infrastructure, the public infrastructure is not there. I have to rely more on the private sector to ensure that they will be able to provide the service. But how can I attract the private sector? How I can convince the private sector to be with me? Number one, to be part of pricing the services. Dynamic. Dynamic, I mean by dynamic if the inflation is changed, they can call for a committee tomorrow. We need to change the pricing. And they can at any time, because they are part of the committee who are pricing for the whole Republic of Egypt. They can change it on a weekly basis, on a monthly basis, in order to ensure that they are always seeing the system, responding to their success, because eventually, they look for profit. Eventually, they look to get more business. At least, unless this business is attractive for them, they will not be joining me. This is number one. Number two, I'm trying to ensure that the capacity they have will be built-in in the system itself. They are on the price, on the provider side, and I give them the opportunity to do more and more business. Egypt has roughly 115 million people living in it, and in some areas, the private sector has more infrastructure, more capabilities, so I believe with good prices, with good volume of business, and with good infrastructure, they’ll come with us. Also, we always make contracts with them on a regular basis to join us. Even the insurance companies. I said to the insurance companies, “You can work with us.” Why? Because at some level of different categories of population, insurance companies are more efficient to deal with those who have the financial capabilities and want some special health system. So, I say, “Okay, I have a price list, and this price list will be applied to all, because the private sector and the independent experts were there in pricing. So, let the insurance companies make the contract with the employers and provide whatever services they want, and at the end, for every quarter or so, we can make a financial settlement. You are happy, we are happy.” At the end, the government wants what? They want the citizen to enjoy a good health service. For me, I want it to be efficient. I want to ensure that this system will continue to be sustainable. This system will earn the satisfaction of the citizen, regardless of who will provide the service, the public or private sector. This is not my job. My job is to make citizens happy. I created the money which can support that. I said, “The money cannot get from one source.” If it is only the budget, I will be under the mercy of the budget and the Minister of Finance. So, I said, “No.” We need to get social insurance contribution directly deducted from people's salaries and from the employers to the system. This is number one. Number two, earmarking tax on tobacco and cigarettes and everything should come directly to us. So, the tax authority collects this money and doesn’t give it to the Minister of Finance, it gives it directly to the system. At the end, the Minister of Finance is responsible for financing a part of the system, particularly the population who are not able to finance themselves.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you, Minister Maait. Now, let's go back to that point about local production. There were important lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic for many countries about not having medical equipment, tools, and drugs, pharmaceutical drugs, not being produced locally. You manufacture locally in Morocco, in Senegal. You're looking to expand into East Africa and also the Middle East. So outside of health emergencies, how does local production actually help increase health coverage?
[Lamia Tazi]
We know all that COVID pandemic was a really crash test for all, and especially for the health systems. Even I know in rich countries, there are many issues of shortage of medications, of all medical devices. So, Morocco had the chance to have a good experience on it because of this local production. We were able to provide all medication needed when all important products were stopped. By the way, Sothema is working also in Africa, and we were providing also, with the Moroccan approval, our African countries and partners, because there were shortages in many, many products. So, it was very important to have this local production to permit the pandemic to pass away. I think without this local production, Morocco and Africa will have issues. Now, I can talk about opportunities in the health coverage. I discussed about all that pharma industry gives for the health coverage. Of course, in this pharma industry, as Mr. Minister said, we have also opportunities as producers. Of course, it makes the quantities more important because of the economy of scale, so, we reduce the price. We reduced the price so we can afford more quantities with accessibility, and we know how the cost of the product is very important in the health coverage. So, this opportunity is in affordability and also in creating an ecosystem. Helping this local production is pushing investors to invest more, invest more in new technologies, which is a very important point for me. Primary care is very important, but in our region, we also face the same issues in chronic diseases. We have oncology, we have cardiovascular, and these molecules are very expensive for countries like us. So, giving the opportunity to local producers, it's to push them also to invest on new technology, to create an ecosystem in R&D. R&D is not existing in our countries. So, I think that, as you said, partnership between public and private is really a win-win situation for all. And from my side, I'm very happy to participate in this adventure. It permits us to think about going outside Morocco and outside our region, which is very important for the economy and for bringing in the outside. So, at the end, it's a win-win situation.
[Shakuntala Santhiran] Thank you, Lamia.[Joanne Carter] Yes. [Shakuntala Santhiran] Joanne… [Joanne Carter] Yes.
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
In closing, you've been a strong advocate for universal health coverage, throughout your career you've worked very hard to bring many different players to tackle the major diseases of poverty. How do you think we can keep funding an action for global health as a top priority?
[Joanne Carter]
Well, thanks. I would say the thing that I come back to start with is that we cannot achieve these targets for primary health care, for Universal Health Coverage without more funding for these priorities. That is so clear. It's also clear that countries and the most impacted communities need to lead on what's needed, and they need to do domestic financing in ways to protect the most impoverished. But we so need donors to also do their part in the financing. Increasing, again, grant and concessional finance through increasing support for the IDA replenishment, which is in play right now, as well as for other key global health institutions, is absolutely essential for supporting domestic investment and ambition. Also, the Global Financing Facility, which is housed here at the Bank, is one of the instruments that can help support countries to crowd in more IDA resources and also more domestic resources for health. I would say, really importantly, where countries are stepping up domestic investment in health and areas like nutrition, this has to be an incentive for donors to do more and not an excuse to do less. I would also say it was really exciting to hear about the local production, and the UHC will require everyone at the table. I would also say that in health delivery, we need also a core, strong public health system. I think that is another strength of IDA because it actually works across the public health sectors to support that. I guess, finally, I would say to your question of what do we need to do. We need ministers of finance who are leaders like this. We need ministers of health. We need the private sector and things like dispersed manufacturing. We also need members of Parliament; I know that there's members of Parliament here from around the world whose role on budgets and oversight, and as champions, is really key. And absolutely central is the role of local leaders, civil society, and especially directly affected communities for setting direction for holding governments and institutions accountable and also for resource mobilization. I would just say to wrap up, I've worked with the US and other donor governments for decades as an advocate, and I know that we have strong allies in those places for global health, and I also know the constraints that they face, right? But those constraints are political and not fundamentally economic. These are political decisions, and so we need to provide public backing for our allies and our champions, but we cannot let donor countries step back at this time. We need them to step up, to fund what matters, and to be partners with countries so that countries can fund what matters to the communities and the most vulnerable. And ultimately, and Dr. Tedros said this at the start, this is a political choice, and we cannot accept that there isn't enough money for this agenda, and we cannot expect countries to try to do more with less. We actually need to increase support for IDA and other key global health institutions so that we can support countries to do lots more on primary health care, on UHC with more. We all need to work together to make that happen. Thank you [Shakuntala Santhiran] Bravo. [Audience applauds]
[Shakuntala Santhiran]
Thank you all for being part of this very necessary conversation. Partnerships are clearly key to making a dent in improving and increasing health services. Partnerships with civil society organizations who know the situation on the ground. Partnerships with governments who prioritize health and the financing for it, and partnerships with the private sector that can help fill gaps, especially when it comes to medical supplies and delivery. Many thanks to all our guests once again, and thank you to everyone who took part in our quiz who answered the question, what is the one thing most crucial to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage? Here is what you said, the cloud is up there. We see money, affordability. Yes, we need more affordable services. All those answers are correct. You've all clearly been paying attention to our expert speakers. Underpinning all of this, political will, and of course, the funding, the money, funding for healthcare ultimately is a fundamental investment for the benefit of all that will unlock future human capital and economic progress. Thank you very much for taking part, for sharing your thoughts. That brings us to the end of this event. We hope it's been informative and engaging for you. You can watch the replay of this session and our other events at live.worldbank.org. Please, do continue sharing your comments online with the hashtag #WBGMeetings. We'd love to hear from you. We thank you for joining us. Thank you. [Audience applauds] [Music]
The goal of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is to ensure everyone receives the health services they need without facing financial hardship. Viewing health as an investment rather than an expense can unlock human capital and economic dividends for countries. Find out what our partners and UHC champions have to say about why Universal Health Coverage is so important, and what can be done to achieve this.
Hello everyone, and welcome to our event “TRANSFORMING CHALLENGE INTO ACTION: EXPANDING HEALTH COVERAGE FOR ALL”. We will start in a few minutes. Please stay tuned and submit your comments and questions using the live chat.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Today, over half of the world’s population―around 4.5 billion people―lack access to essential health services. And two billion people face financial hardships due to health-related expenses. This is compounded by a range of growing risks such as climate change, pandemics, fragility, and conflict.
Our event will advocate for action toward health coverage and call for more and better financing of health. We would be delighted if you would lend your voice to support more and better health services for people around the world.
You can join the conversation on social media using the hashtags #WBMeetings and #InvestinPeople, #HealthforAll, & #InvestinHealth. This event will also be livestreamed on our World Bank X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and LinkedIn.
While we wait for the event to begin, learn more about the World Bank and health
You can also get insights on IFC and health
I am joined by David Wilson, our expert live blogger who will answer questions during the event. David is Program Director in the Health, Nutrition and Population Global Practice. He served as Team Leader of the World Bank’s COVID-19 and Health Emergency Preparedness and Response. He has published ~150 scientific papers and worked in about 60 countries on all continents, the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Our event moderator, Shakuntala “Shaks“ Santhiran, kicks off the discussion by inviting Ajay Banga, the World Bank President, and Dr.Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director General of the World Health Organization, for a fireside chat.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How to ensure inter-generational justice in the allocation of scarce resources in grossly under funded health systems that are facing needs of populations with high fertility rates and a significant increase in numbers of aging seniors with chronic health problems?
Ian Hopwood
That’s a great question. The World Bank works on both maternal and child health and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through a variety of programs and initiatives. For maternal and child health, the World Bank supports efforts to improve access to quality health services, including prenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and essential newborn care. The World Bank also supports programs to improve child nutrition, immunization coverage, and the prevention and treatment of common childhood illnesses.
David Wilson / Expert
Am from Africa, more precisely from Borno State (Nigeria). In my home town of more 13,000 people we don't have a doctor.
Jafiya Apagu mamza
I’m very sorry to hear that. The World Bank is working in many countries, including Nigeria, to increase the health workforce through various initiatives, including funding for training and education programs, and supporting the development of health systems. The World Bank also provides technical assistance and policy advice to help countries strengthen their health systems and improve access to quality health services. Additionally, the World Bank's Health Results Innovation Trust Fund (HRITF) supports efforts to improve health outcomes in low-income countries, which may include initiatives to increase the health workforce.
David Wilson / Expert
We released a report today on The Great Reversal” of progress after COVID.
The World Bank strives to improve health services in low-income countries. Here are some key actions and initiatives:
1. Universal Health Coverage (UHC): The World Bank actively promotes UHC, which aims to ensure that everyone, especially the most vulnerable, has access to quality health care without suffering financial hardship. UHC allows countries to maximize their human capital by supporting good health. It is a critical part of achieving the World Bank’s mission to end extreme poverty and boost prosperity. UHC is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3.8, which focuses on achieving universal health coverage, financial risk protection, and access to essential health care services and medicines.
2. Monitoring and Tracking: The World Bank collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO) to track progress toward UHC. This involves measuring two key indicators:
o Service Coverage Index (SCI): This index assesses the ability of people in a country to access essential health services. It considers indicators related to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and service capacity. Higher SCI values indicate greater service coverage.
o Financial Protection: The World Bank monitors the share of the population living in households where out-of-pocket health spending exceeds 10% or 25% of the household budget. Catastrophic health spending can push people into poverty.
3. Challenges and Priorities:
o Government Spending: Despite progress, many low-income and middle-income countries face stagnation or contraction of government spending on health. Governments in low-income countries spend less than 2% of GDP on health, while those in lower middle-income countries spend less than 3%.
o Health System Limitations: Health systems in lower income countries often struggle to meet basic health needs due to limitations. Initiatives such as the WHO millennium development goals and disease programs face challenges due to these limitations.
In summary, the World Bank advocates for UHC, monitors progress, and collaborates with global partners to improve health services and promote financial protection in low-income countries. However, addressing these challenges requires sustained efforts and innovative approaches to strengthen health systems and ensure equitable access to quality care.
David Wilson / Expert
Thanks for asking! The World Bank recognizes the importance of social and community engagement and participation in achieving better health outcomes. As such, the World Bank includes community initiatives in its health strategy in several ways. For example, the World Bank supports community-based health programs that empower local communities to take an active role in improving their own health. The World Bank also works with governments and other partners to strengthen community health systems and to ensure that health services are accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of local communities. Additionally, the World Bank supports initiatives that promote community participation in health planning and decision-making, to ensure that health programs and policies are informed by the needs and priorities of the communities they serve.
David Wilson / Expert
How do we attain universal Health coverage?
Andrew Mwale
Yes, that’s the subject of today’s event. Universal health coverage (UHC) is a critical goal for global health. Achieving UHC means that everyone has access to the full range of quality health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship. Here are some key strategies to move toward UHC:
1. Primary Health Care (PHC): Strengthening PHC is essential. PHC serves as the engine for UHC, providing essential services from health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. By investing in PHC, we can save lives, reduce health inequalities, and improve overall well-being. During health crises, PHC plays a crucial role in surveillance, testing, and contact tracing, preventing hospitals from being overwhelmed with critically ill patients.
2. Sustainable Financing: Countries must find sustainable financing mechanisms to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Pre-payment and pooling, along with efficient use of available funds, have been suggested as alternatives. By spreading costs across the entire population, everyone contributes, but at a much lower individual burden. This approach ensures that those requiring treatment for serious diseases are spared from extremely high costs, preventing financial catastrophe due to illness.
3. Strengthening the Health Workforce: A well-distributed, adequately supported health workforce is crucial. Ensuring equitable access to quality health workers at all levels of the health system is essential. Investing in training, retention, and decent work conditions for health professionals is vital for achieving UHC
As you know, achieving UHC is one of the targets set by nations worldwide when adopting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It’s not just about health; it contributes to social inclusion, equality, poverty reduction, economic growth, and human dignity.
David Wilson / Expert
Please I would like to know the reason why in Africa, our health insurance does not cover all the prescribed medications but instead patient needs to pay for a lot of medication administered to them
Faithful
Yes, I’m sorry to say we hear this a lot. Out-of-pocket (OOP) health spending is high in Africa due to a combination of factors:
1. Insufficient Public Health Financing: Many African countries have limited public health financing, which means that the costs of health services often fall directly on individuals. This can lead to high OOP expenses, especially for those without health insurance.
2. Lack of Insurance Coverage: A significant portion of the population in African countries lacks health insurance. Without insurance, people must pay for all their medical expenses out-of-pocket, which can be prohibitively expensive.
3. Economic Status and Poverty: The economic status of households greatly influences their ability to pay for healthcare. Poorer households may face higher OOP health spending relative to their income, leading to financial hardship and even impoverishment
4. Geographical Barriers: In many parts of Africa, especially rural areas, access to healthcare facilities is limited. This can increase the cost of seeking care due to transportation expenses and the need to travel long distances.
5. Cost of Medications: The high cost of brand-name pharmaceuticals, which households often have to purchase, contributes significantly to OOP expenses.
6. Socio-Demographic Factors: Factors such as household size, type of illness, and socio-demographic characteristics of household members also play a role in the level of OOP health spending.
7. Health System Challenges: Many African health systems face challenges such as insufficient infrastructure, a shortage of healthcare workers, and inadequate supply chains for medicines and equipment. These issues can lead to higher costs for health services.
To address these issues, policies that increase health services coverage, improve access to insurance, and support planned urbanization and trade can help reduce OOP health spending. Additionally, improving access to basic sanitation, childhood immunization services, and ICT (information and communication technology) can also have a positive impact.
David Wilson / Expert
After 40 years of Alma-Ata Declaration 1978 inaugurated, what is the cost burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases to the World Bank in West Africa especially Nigeria?
Umar Usman
Let’s take the example of NCDs in Nigeria. The economic burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on Nigerian households is substantial and has significant implications for the economy. Let’s look more closely.
1. Average Household Spending on NCD Care:
o On average, a household in Nigeria with NCDs spends ₦122,313.60 or $398.52 per year on NCD care.
o This represents approximately 24% of the household’s food expenditure.
o The cost of NCD medications, cancer treatment, mental health problems, and renal diseases significantly contributes to this financial burden.
2. Catastrophic Health Expenditure (CHE):
o About 30% of households with NCDs experienced CHE in 2018.
o The World Health Organization (WHO) Europe method, using a 40% threshold, was used to estimate CHE.
o The cost of NCD medications was a significant driver of CHE among NCD-affected households.
3. Impoverishment:
o Approximately 20% of households with NCDs were impoverished or further impoverished due to out-of-pocket (OOP) payments for NCD care.
o Another 10% were on the verge of impoverishment.
o The economic distress caused by NCD-induced health expenditure exacerbates poverty.
4. Policy Implications:
o Effective policy interventions are crucial to address the economic impact of NCDs on Nigerian households, particularly among the poor and vulnerable.
o Strategies should focus on reducing financial barriers to NCD care, promoting health insurance coverage, and providing social security for individuals with NCDs.
In summary, NCDs pose a significant challenge to Nigerian households, affecting their financial stability and overall well-being. Addressing this burden requires targeted policies and interventions to mitigate the economic consequences of NCDs and improve access to affordable healthcare.
David Wilson / Expert
How is your organization ready to motivate the teenage pregnancy girls and widows
EMILY
The World Bank Group recognizes the importance of adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) and works to improve services in countries facing high ASRH burdens. Here are some key actions taken by the World Bank:
1. Integrated ASRH Services:
o The World Bank invests in universal access to integrated ASRH services. These services cover a wide range of needs, including family planning, sexual health education, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
o By ensuring that adolescents have access to quality ASRH services, the World Bank aims to improve health outcomes and reduce unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions.
2. Targeting Vulnerable Populations:
o The World Bank focuses on investing in ASRH for poor and vulnerable young populations. These groups often face additional barriers to accessing healthcare.
o By addressing the unique needs of vulnerable adolescents, the World Bank aims to reduce health disparities and promote equity.
3. High-Impact Interventions Across Sectors:
o The World Bank recognizes that ASRH is inseparable from all aspects of adolescent health. It provides an opportunity for health gain or loss.
o Investing in high-impact adolescent interventions across various sectors (such as education, social services, and community programs) ensures sustainability and comprehensive support for adolescents.
4. Promoting Comprehensive Sexuality Education:
o Comprehensive sexuality education is essential for informed decision-making and healthy behaviors.
o While no country in the Asia-Pacific region currently provides comprehensive sexuality education as part of the school curriculum, the World Bank advocates for its inclusion to improve ASRH outcomes.
5. Economic Implications and Investment:
o Adolescent pregnancies have far-reaching economic implications. Girls who drop out of school due to pregnancy face long-term economic challenges.
o Investing in healthcare access and education for adolescents outweighs the costs. For instance, every additional $1 invested in contraceptive services saves an estimated $1.95 in maternal, newborn, and abortion care by reducing unintended pregnancies.
In summary, the World Bank collaborates with countries to enhance ASRH services, reduce health disparities, and promote economic development by prioritizing the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents.
David Wilson / Expert
How can grassroots efforts contribute to ensuring equitable access to healthcare in marginalized communities
Anonymous
Please see my answer above.
David Wilson / Expert
I want to know about the health care innovation fund.
Mr. Hussnein. +923053259032
The World Bank Health Results Innovation Trust Fund (HRITF) is a multi-donor trust fund that supports efforts to improve health outcomes in low-income countries. The HRITF provides funding for results-based financing (RBF) approaches, which link financing to the achievement of specific health results. The goal of the HRITF is to improve the coverage, quality, and equity of health services, particularly for women and children.
David Wilson / Expert
Ajay has announced lifting our ambition to reach 1.5 billion more people with quality healthcare in the next six years. We hope that you will join us in making this happen.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Remember you can send your questions through the live chat on this page. You can submit your questions in English, French, Spanish or Arabic. Our experts will answer your questions in real-time in this chat.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How is world bank related to human health needs??
Mr.Naluswa Mark
The World Bank Group is committed to improving global health through its comprehensive strategy and programs. Here are the key aspects of their approach:
1. Universal Health Coverage (UHC):
o The World Bank supports countries in achieving universal health coverage by strengthening primary health systems.
o Their goal is to provide quality, affordable health services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
o UHC allows countries to maximize their strongest asset: human capital.
2. Global Health Portfolio:
o The World Bank’s $36 billion global health portfolio includes over 210 projects.
o These projects take a comprehensive approach to improving health outcomes, especially for poor and vulnerable populations.
o Key areas of focus include strengthening primary care and essential public health functions.
3. Global Financing Facility (GFF):
o The GFF, hosted at the World Bank, supports countries with the highest maternal and child mortality burden.
o Since its founding in 2015, partner countries have made significant progress in improving maternal and child health.
4. Challenges and Risks:
o The World Bank recognizes challenges such as climate change, pandemics, demographic shifts, and a shortage of healthcare workers.
o These factors put pressure on health systems and exacerbate negative health trends, especially for vulnerable populations.
o Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major concern, accounting for 70% of global deaths.
o Rates of malnutrition, unmet sexual and reproductive health needs, and maternal mortality remain high in many regions.
5. Pandemic Preparedness and Resilient Health Systems:
o The World Bank emphasizes the importance of pandemic preparedness and disease surveillance.
o Strong and resilient health systems are crucial for better protection against major disease outbreaks.
6. Investing in Health:
o Despite evidence that investing in health is critical for productivity and inclusive growth, government health spending has dropped since the end of the COVID pandemic.
o Ensuring access to healthcare for every woman and child is fundamental to ending poverty and achieving UHC.
In summary, the World Bank’s health strategy focuses on UHC, resilient health systems, and addressing global health challenges. Their programs aim to improve health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations, and promote economic well-being.
David Wilson / Expert
How would i and my university be get funding for research project, as the integrated implementation of the world bank organization pathway?
Asteria
We have a projects with health and education ministries that include research funding, administered by the relevant ministry. Contact them for information.
David Wilson / Expert
Mr. Shun’ichi Suzuki, Minister of Finance of Japan, provides brief remarks on the importance of achieving Universal Health Coverage. He also announced that Japan will establish a new UHC knowledge hub in Japan in 2025.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Ready to showcase your knowledge and compare your expertise with event attendees worldwide? Take the quiz now and see where you stand! Click here to answer the poll question
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How does the World Bank incorporate principles of equity and social inclusion into its strategies and interventions to ensure that essential healthcare services reach the most vulnerable and marginalized populations?
Anonymous
The World Bank is committed to promoting equity and social inclusion in its strategies and interventions to ensure that essential healthcare services reach vulnerable and marginalized populations. Here are some key ways it incorporates these principles:
1. Social Inclusion:
o The World Bank recognizes that social inclusion is crucial for sustainable development.
o It focuses on improving the terms on which individuals and groups participate in society, addressing barriers based on identity factors such as gender, age, location, occupation, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, and sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI).
2. COVID-19 Impact:
o The pandemic highlighted systemic inequalities and intensified impacts on marginalized groups.
o Vulnerable populations, including women, persons with disabilities, unemployed youth, sexual and gender minorities, the elderly, Indigenous Peoples, and ethnic and racial minorities, faced unique challenges during COVID-19.
3. Economic and Health Costs of Exclusion:
o Excluding disadvantaged groups can be costly at both individual and national levels.
o Loss of wages, lifetime earnings, education, and employment outcomes are common impacts.
o Racism and discrimination also have physical and mental health costs.
4. Universal Health Coverage (UHC):
o UHC is a key objective for the World Bank.
o It ensures that everyone can access quality health services without financial hardship.
o UHC allows countries to maximize their human capital by supporting health and well-being throughout life stages.
5. Strategies for Inclusion:
o The World Bank’s strategy to reach 1.5 billion people by 2030 includes:
Expanding focus beyond maternal and child health to include non-communicable diseases.
Reaching hard-to-reach areas, including remote villages.
Collaborating with governments to reduce financial barriers to healthcare.
6. Partnerships and Governance:
o Strong partnerships with NGOs, the private sector, and civil society are critical.
o Regulatory certainty and reliable governance enable private sector investments in local production of medications and protective gear.
In summary, the World Bank’s commitment to equity, social inclusion, and UHC aims to ensure that essential healthcare services are accessible to all, leaving no one behind.
David Wilson / Expert
The first panel is now taking place on “Achieving UHC: Opportunities, Challenges and Country Reforms.” The first panelist was Dr. Muhammad Pate, Minister of Health, Nigeria. The current speaker is Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of Finance, Indonesia. The next panelist will be Dr. Senait Fisseha, Vice-President of Global Programs, The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
In what ways can climate change and environmental degradation impact the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, and how can these challenges be addressed in health coverage expansion plans?
Anonymous
Climate change has significant implications for human health. It affects various aspects of well-being, both directly and indirectly. Here are some key points about the impact of climate change on health and potential interventions:
1. Direct Health Effects:
o Extreme Weather Events: Climate change leads to more frequent and intense weather events such as heatwaves, storms, floods, and wildfires. These events cause injuries, deaths, and mental health issues.
o Heat Stress: Rising temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths, especially among vulnerable populations.
o Vector-Borne Diseases: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect the distribution of disease-carrying vectors (e.g., mosquitoes, ticks). This impacts the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue, and Lyme disease.
o Air Pollution: Climate change exacerbates air pollution, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Indirect Health Effects:
o Food Security: Climate change disrupts food systems, affecting crop yields and nutritional quality. Undernutrition and malnutrition become more prevalent.
o Waterborne Diseases: Altered precipitation patterns impact water quality, leading to an increased risk of waterborne illnesses.
o Mental Health: Climate-related disasters, loss of livelihoods, and displacement contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression.
3. Interventions to Reduce Impact:
o Mitigation: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through cleaner energy sources, sustainable transportation, and better land use choices can improve air quality and prevent health issues.
o Adaptation: Communities can prepare for climate-related health risks by:
Heat Island Mitigation: Planting trees, using reflective materials, and promoting green spaces to reduce urban heat islands.
Early Warning Systems: Real-time data surveillance and warnings for extreme weather events.
Health Education: Raising awareness about climate-related health risks.
Infrastructure Improvements: Building resilient infrastructure to withstand climate impacts.
Vector Control: Implementing measures to control disease vectors.
Mental Health Support: Providing counseling and psychological first aid during and after climate-related disasters.
4. Equity Considerations:
o Vulnerable populations, including low-income communities, children, and the elderly, are disproportionately affected by climate change.
o Interventions should address equity and ensure that no one is left behind.
In summary, addressing climate change requires a multifaceted approach that combines mitigation efforts to reduce emissions with adaptation strategies to protect human health. By acting now, we can mitigate the worst impacts and safeguard our well-being for future generations.
David Wilson / Expert
For further details on challenges and opportunities, please check out the Brief: Expanding Health Coverage for All
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
I want to ask whether this Transforming Challenge into Action: Expanding Health Coverage for All has brought a positive result or outcome in Ethiopia?
I am a university teacher, and want to attend meeting
The World Bank has been actively involved in supporting Ethiopia’s efforts to expand health coverage and improve access to essential healthcare services. The initiative titled “Transforming Challenge into Action: Expanding Health Coverage for All” aims to address the critical need for affordable and accessible health care in the country. Here are the key details:
• Objective: The initiative focuses on ensuring that more people in Ethiopia have greater access to high-quality and affordable health care.
• Challenges Addressed:
o Over half of the world’s population (around 4.5 billion people) lacks access to essential health services.
o Two billion people face financial hardships due to health-related expenses.
o Growing risks such as climate change, pandemics, fragility, and conflict compound these challenges.
• Approach:
o The World Bank collaborates closely with Ethiopia and other partners to address these health challenges.
o The initiative aims to unlock human capital and economic dividends by investing in health care as an essential investment, not an expense.
• Impact Assessment:
o The impact of this initiative is still unfolding, but its focus on expanding health coverage and improving access to essential services aligns with Ethiopia’s broader health system strengthening efforts.
o By prioritizing equity and social inclusion, the initiative aims to reach vulnerable and marginalized populations.
o Monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to assess the long-term impact on health outcomes and resilience.
In summary, the World Bank’s initiative in Ethiopia seeks to transform challenges into actionable solutions, ensuring that health coverage expands to reach all segments of the population. Its success will be measured by improved health outcomes and greater access to quality care for Ethiopians.
David Wilson / Expert
Governments must take rapid action to prioritize health spending and put their countries and the world on a pandemic-resilient, sustainable development trajectory. Learn more by reading our report on Health Financing in a Time of Global Shocks
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
The moderator now introduces the “Voices of Country Health Workers” video. The health workers highlighted solutions to improve health services, that sets the scene for the next discussion.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Before having the second panel, our event moderator reflects on the poll questions and reveals the correct answers.
- Poll question 1: A woman is 34 times more likely to die from childbirth in a low-income country compared to a high-income one.
- Poll question 2: 43% of countries have fewer than one doctor for every 1,000 people
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
We are now heading to the second panel on: “How can we better finance health? Innovative and new ways of health financing”. Panelists are:
- Ms. Lamia Tazi, CEO, Sothema (Morocco)
- Joanne Carter, Executive Director, RESULTS
- Dr. Mohamed Maait, Minister of Finance, Egypt
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How World Bank fund developing countries?
Wais Ahmad Akhonzadah
The World Bank is a vital source of financial and technical assistance to developing countries. We are not a bank in the ordinary sense but a unique partnership to reduce poverty and support development. To learn more about how the World Bank works, you can watch this short video
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How do we deliver the necessary information about persons with disabilities in primary health care? Especially mental disabilities
Marwa Omar
The World Bank actively engages in work related to disabilities, recognizing that disability is a cross-cutting development issue. Here are some key aspects of the World Bank’s efforts in this area:
1. Disability Inclusion Overview:
o One billion people, or 15% of the world’s population, experience some form of disability.
o Persons with disabilities are more likely to face adverse socioeconomic outcomes, including less education, poorer health, lower employment rates, and higher poverty rates.
o Barriers to inclusion include inaccessible physical environments, lack of assistive devices, gaps in service delivery, and discriminatory prejudice.
o The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) promotes the full integration of persons with disabilities in societies, emphasizing the importance of international development in addressing their rights.
o The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development explicitly states that disability cannot be a reason for lack of access to development programming and human rights realization.
o The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework includes targets that explicitly refer to persons with disabilities and those in vulnerable situations.
2. Integrating Disability into World Bank Operations:
o The World Bank integrates disability issues into its operations across various sectors:
Accessibility and Rehabilitation: Promoting accessibility and rehabilitation services.
Skills Development and Economic Opportunities: Providing skills development and creating economic opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Policy Influence and Institutional Development: Influencing policies and strengthening institutional frameworks.
o Examples include projects in Bangladesh, Burundi, Rwanda, India, and Nepal that focus on vulnerable groups, including children with disabilities, ex-combatants, and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
David Wilson / Expert
What innovative approaches can be adopted to address the disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas?
Anonymous
Certainly! Addressing disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas requires thoughtful and innovative approaches. Here are some strategies that can help bridge the gap:
1. Telehealth and Telemedicine:
o Telehealth services can provide remote consultations, diagnosis, and treatment. This is especially crucial for rural areas where access to healthcare facilities is limited.
o Telemedicine allows patients to connect with specialists and receive expert advice without traveling long distances.
2. Mobile Clinics and Outreach Programs:
o Deploying mobile clinics to rural communities can bring healthcare services directly to people’s doorsteps.
o Outreach programs can raise awareness about preventive measures, health screenings, and available services.
3. Community Health Workers (CHWs):
o Trained CHWs can serve as a bridge between healthcare providers and rural residents. They can educate communities, promote health literacy, and facilitate access to care.
4. Health Literacy Campaigns:
o Conducting campaigns to improve health literacy is essential. Many rural residents lack awareness of available services, preventive measures, and treatment options.
o Providing clear and simple information can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.
5. Multi-Disciplinary Care Teams:
o Collaborative teams comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and mental health professionals can address various health needs.
o These teams can work together to provide comprehensive care, especially for chronic conditions.
6. Incentives for Healthcare Providers:
o Offering financial incentives or loan forgiveness to healthcare professionals who work in rural areas can attract and retain talent.
o Rural health rotations during medical training can also expose students to rural practice.
7. Infrastructure Investment:
o Improving physical infrastructure, such as roads, transportation, and communication networks, can enhance access to healthcare facilities.
o Emergency medical services (EMS) infrastructure is critical for timely responses during emergencies.
8. Collaboration with Non-Health Sectors:
o Engaging sectors like education, housing, and agriculture can indirectly impact health outcomes.
o For example, better housing conditions can reduce health risks, and educational programs can promote health awareness.
9. Innovative Payment Models:
o Pay-for-performance models can incentivize healthcare providers to deliver quality care.
o Global budgets for rural hospitals can ensure stable funding and prevent closures.
10. Data-Driven Decision-Making:
o Collecting and analyzing data on health disparities, service utilization, and outcomes can guide targeted interventions.
o Health Equity Dashboards can visualize disparities and inform policy decisions.
As you know, a combination of these approaches, tailored to the specific needs of each rural community, is essential for achieving equitable healthcare access.
David Wilson / Expert
What Sustainable role do public-private partnerships play in achieving universal health coverage, and how can they be leveraged to maximize impact while ensuring equitable access to healthcare services?-Akinradewo A.M.Orobola.
globalglsufad
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) play a role in achieving universal health coverage (UHC) by leveraging the strengths of both sectors. Let’s explore their sustainable role and how they can maximize impact while ensuring equitable access to healthcare services:
1. Enhancing Service Delivery:
o PPPs bring together public and private resources, expertise, and innovation.
o They can improve service delivery by expanding access to underserved populations, especially in remote or marginalized areas.
2. Innovative Financing Models:
o PPPs create new financing mechanisms beyond traditional government funding.
o Private sector investments can complement public resources, allowing for sustainable health system development.
3. Infrastructure Development:
o PPPs facilitate the construction, renovation, and management of healthcare facilities.
o Private sector expertise ensures efficient infrastructure development.
4. Technology and Digital Health:
o Private partners contribute digital solutions, telemedicine, and health information systems.
o These technologies enhance service delivery, data management, and patient engagement.
5. Capacity Building and Training:
o PPPs support workforce development through training programs, skill-building, and knowledge transfer.
o Private sector involvement strengthens healthcare human resources.
6. Quality Assurance and Standards:
o PPPs uphold quality standards through performance-based contracts.
o Regular monitoring ensures adherence to clinical guidelines and patient safety.
7. Equity and Access:
o To ensure equitable access:
Pro-poor PPPs: Target vulnerable populations and prioritize their needs.
Geographic Equity: Develop services in underserved regions.
Affordability: Balance private sector returns with affordable services for all.
8. Risk Sharing and Accountability:
o PPPs allocate risks between sectors.
o Clear accountability mechanisms ensure transparency and prevent misuse of public funds.
9. Community Engagement:
o Inclusive PPPs involve communities in decision-making.
o Community health workers and local organizations play a vital role.
10. Learning from Best Practices:
o Collaborate with successful PPPs globally.
o Share lessons learned and adapt models to local contexts.
In summary, PPPs can drive sustainable UHC by combining public and private sector strengths. Effective governance, transparency, and a focus on equity are essential for maximizing their impact while ensuring access to quality healthcare for all.
David Wilson / Expert
Please share any examples you have on loans/grants the Bank has provided to Low Income Country governments to engage their local academic institutions to provide training and technical expertise for their public service. Thank you.
Keith Martin
The World Bank is currently providing substantial support for university education in Africa through various initiatives, focusing on enhancing the quality and relevance of higher education. Here are some key programs:
1. Africa Higher Education Centers of Excellence (ACE):
o The ACE project is a significant regional program funded by the World Bank to address higher-level skills development and innovative research requirements for the continent’s priority sectors.
o It supports over 80 centers in more than 50 universities across 20 countries, focusing on areas like science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), agriculture, health, environment, applied social science, and education.
2. ACE for Development Impact (ACE-Impact):
o Launched in collaboration with the French Development Agency, ACE-Impact is the third phase of the ACE program. It involves 53 centers in 35 universities across 11 countries, aiming to improve postgraduate education’s quality, quantity, and development impact.
3. Financial Support for Higher Education:
o The World Bank has approved substantial amounts in International Development Association (IDA) credits and grants to scale up support for higher education in countries like Benin, The Gambia, Niger, Nigeria, and Togo. These funds are directed towards delivering high-quality education and training in key fields such as STEM, health, and agriculture.
These efforts are part of the World Bank’s broader strategy to promote sustainable development and economic transformation in Africa by investing in human capital through education. The focus on regional specialization and collaboration in postgraduate programs is designed to meet labor market demands and address some of the region’s most pressing development challenges.
David Wilson / Expert
What measures does the World Bank take to ensure that its health projects are sustainable in the long term and contribute to building resilient healthcare systems capable of withstanding future challenges?
Anonymous
The World Bank Group is committed to improving health services and building resilient healthcare systems. Here are some key measures it takes to ensure the sustainability of its health projects:
1. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Focus:
o The World Bank aims to achieve UHC by 2030, ensuring that all people can access quality health services without financial hardship.
o UHC contributes to long-term resilience by strengthening health systems.
2. Health Systems Strengthening:
o The World Bank’s health financing emphasizes health systems strengthening. This includes:
Infrastructure development: Building and upgrading healthcare facilities.
Workforce capacity: Training healthcare workers and improving their skills.
Health information systems: Enhancing data collection and monitoring.
Community health workforce: Expanding community-based services.
3. Resilience to Future Challenges:
o The World Bank recognizes the need for resilient health systems to withstand future shocks, such as pandemics, climate change, and conflicts.
o It invests in early warning functions, community engagement, and robust public health institutions.
4. Partnerships and Collaboration:
o Strong partnerships with non-government organizations, the private sector, and civil society are critical for success.
o Collaborating with other global health organizations enhances impact.
5. Regulatory Certainty and Governance:
o The World Bank encourages countries to establish reliable governance and regulatory frameworks.
o This creates an enabling environment for private sector investments, local production of medications, and protective gear..
In summary, the World Bank’s commitment to UHC, health systems strengthening, and collaboration ensures that its health projects contribute to long-term resilience and better healthcare outcomes.
David Wilson / Expert
Feel free to explore the International Finance Corporation (IFC) website to learn about how we work with the private sector in developing countries to improve access to health
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Learn how IFC and its partners supports local clinics and facilities in Africa by reading this blog post by Alison Buckholtz: Filling the Prescription for Better Medical Equipment
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Can you provide examples of successful World Bank-supported initiatives aimed at improving access to essential healthcare services in low-resource settings, and what were the key factors contributing to their success?
Anonymous
These initiatives demonstrate the importance of innovative models, public-private partnerships, and targeted interventions in improving healthcare access in resource-constrained settings. Collaboration, adaptability, and a focus on local needs are critical for success.
Effective governance: Improving health system management.
4. Somalia: Contracting Health Services to NGOs:
o The World Bank-supported project in Somalia builds government capacity to oversee and regulate health services. Key factors contributing to success:
Government-NGO contracting: Contracting health service delivery to NGOs expanded access to quality services.
Successful model: Similar approaches have worked in other low-capacity contexts, such as Afghanistan and Cambodia.
David Wilson / Expert
Additional information on how IFC – the private sector arm of the World Bank Group – works to support the private sector in developing countries can be found on this website
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
How does the World Bank prioritize its investments in healthcare infrastructure and systems strengthening to ensure the provision of essential services to underserved populations?
Anonymous
Reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different socio-economic groups within a country is crucial for achieving health equity. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Health Education and Literacy:
o Promote health literacy through community-based programs, workshops, and educational campaigns.
o Ensure that information is accessible, culturally sensitive, and available in multiple languages.
2. Community Health Workers (CHWs):
o Train and deploy CHWs to provide personalized health education, navigation, and support.
o CHWs can bridge gaps between healthcare providers and underserved communities.
3. Targeted Outreach Programs:
o Design outreach initiatives specifically for socio-economically disadvantaged groups.
o These programs can raise awareness, offer screenings, and connect individuals to healthcare services.
4. Affordable Healthcare Services:
o Implement policies to reduce out-of-pocket costs for low-income populations.
o Expand insurance coverage and subsidize healthcare expenses.
5. Mobile Clinics and Telehealth:
o Mobile clinics can reach remote areas, providing essential services.
o Telehealth enables virtual consultations, especially useful for rural populations.
6. Culturally Competent Care:
o Train healthcare providers to understand diverse cultural backgrounds.
o Respect patients’ beliefs, practices, and preferences.
7. Social Determinants of Health:
o Address social determinants such as housing, employment, and nutrition.
o Collaborate with non-health sectors to improve overall well-being.
8. Equitable Distribution of Healthcare Facilities:
o Ensure that healthcare facilities are distributed fairly across regions.
o Prioritize underserved areas for infrastructure development.
9. Data Collection and Monitoring:
o Collect disaggregated data to identify disparities.
o Monitor progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
10. Policy Advocacy and Legislation:
o Advocate for policies that promote equity, such as anti-discrimination laws and equal access to care.
o Engage policymakers to prioritize health equity.
A comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders, including government, healthcare providers, communities, and NGOs, is essential for reducing disparities and achieving health equity
David Wilson / Expert
How do you foresee the expansion of health coverage impacting economic growth in low and middle-income countries?
Anonymous
Universal health coverage (UHC) has a strong economic impact and contributes significantly to economic growth. Here are some key points:
1. Investment in Human Capital:
o UHC ensures that everyone has access to essential health services without financial hardship.
o Healthy populations are more productive, leading to a more efficient workforce and economic growth.
2. Reducing Poverty and Financial Hardship:
o UHC protects the poor and near-poor from catastrophic health expenditures.
o When people are not burdened by out-of-pocket health costs, they can invest in education, skills, and entrepreneurship.
3. Healthier Workforce:
o UHC improves overall health outcomes, reducing absenteeism and increasing labor force participation.
o Healthy workers are more reliable and productive.
4. Innovation and Research:
o UHC drives innovation in healthcare delivery, technology, and research.
o Advancements can lead to economic gains and exportable knowledge.
5. Social Stability and Resilience:
o UHC promotes social cohesion and stability.
o Healthy populations are better equipped to withstand shocks and crises.
6. Long-Term Cost Savings:
o Preventive care and early treatment reduce long-term healthcare costs.
o UHC avoids expensive emergency interventions.
7. Demographic Dividends:
o UHC supports family planning and maternal health.
o Healthy mothers contribute to a productive workforce and demographic dividends.
In summary, UHC not only improves health outcomes but also fuels economic growth by investing in human capital, reducing poverty, and creating a healthier, more resilient society
David Wilson / Expert
How do you plan to balance the need for expanding health coverage with the financial sustainability of healthcare systems, particularly in resource-constrained settings?
Anonymous
Balancing the expansion of health coverage with financial sustainability in resource-constrained settings is a complex challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies that can be considered:
1. Prioritize Health in Government Spending:
o Governments should prioritize health in their budgets, even during times of fiscal constraints. This may involve reallocating resources from less effective programs to health.
2. Improve Efficiency and Equity:
o Enhancing the efficiency of health spending is crucial. This includes better management of public finances and shifting funds from low-impact to high-impact health programs.
3. Innovative Financing Mechanisms:
o Exploring innovative financing options such as health bonds, sin taxes on tobacco and alcohol, and public-private partnerships can provide additional funding sources.
4. Performance-Based Financing:
o Implementing performance-based financing models can incentivize healthcare providers to deliver quality care and use resources more efficiently.
5. Universal Health Coverage (UHC):
o Striving for UHC can help distribute health costs across a larger population, making healthcare more affordable for everyone.
6. Community Health Insurance Schemes:
o In some settings, community-based health insurance schemes have been successful in pooling risks and resources at the local level.
7. Leverage Technology:
o Utilizing technology such as digital health records and telemedicine can reduce costs and improve service delivery in remote areas.
8. Global Solidarity and Support:
o International financial solidarity, such as aid and grants, can support health systems in the short term while they build capacity for self-sustainability.
9. Cost-Effective Interventions:
o Focusing on cost-effective interventions that have a high impact on public health can ensure that limited resources are used where they are most needed.
10. Data-Driven Decision Making:
o Using data to inform policy decisions can help identify areas where interventions can be most effective and where resources can be saved.
It’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and each setting may require a different combination of these strategies. The key is to develop a sustainable health financing strategy that aligns with the country’s economic capacity and health needs.
David Wilson / Expert
How can partnerships between governments, NGOs, and private sector entities be leveraged to maximize the impact of health coverage expansion initiatives?
Anonymous
Partnerships between governments, NGOs, and private sector entities are important for maximizing the impact of health coverage expansion initiatives. Here’s how they can be leveraged:
1. Complementary Expertise:
o Each partner brings unique strengths and expertise. Governments can provide policy support, NGOs can offer on-the-ground insights, and the private sector can introduce innovation and efficiency.
2. Resource Mobilization:
o Collaborative efforts can mobilize resources more effectively. Private sector funding, government subsidies, and NGO networks can be combined to finance health initiatives.
3. Innovative Solutions:
o The private sector’s drive for innovation can lead to new healthcare solutions, which, when supported by government policies and NGO outreach, can reach a wider population.
4. Infrastructure Development:
o Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can facilitate the development of healthcare infrastructure, such as clinics and hospitals, especially in underserved areas.
5. Capacity Building:
o Training and development programs can be jointly created to enhance the skills of healthcare workers, with NGOs often providing the necessary community engagement.
6. Policy Advocacy:
o NGOs can advocate for policies that support health coverage expansion, while governments can enact these policies and the private sector can help implement them.
7. Scaling Up Services:
o Partnerships can help scale up health services quickly, especially in response to emergencies or in remote areas where government presence is limited.
8. Ensuring Equity:
o By working together, these entities can ensure that health services are equitable and reach the most vulnerable and marginalized populations.
9. Monitoring and Evaluation:
o Joint monitoring and evaluation mechanisms can ensure accountability and transparency, leading to continuous improvement of health services.
10. Sustainability:
o Long-term commitments from all partners can ensure the sustainability of health coverage initiatives, making them resilient to political and economic changes.
By leveraging these partnerships, health coverage expansion initiatives can be more effective, sustainable, and equitable, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all populations involved.
David Wilson / Expert
How can community engagement and participation be enhanced to ensure that health coverage expansion efforts are responsive to local needs and preferences?
Anonymous
Enhancing community engagement and participation is essential for ensuring that health coverage expansion efforts are responsive to local needs and preferences. Here are some strategies to achieve this:
1. Inclusive Planning:
o Involve community members in the planning and decision-making processes from the outset.
o This can include participatory needs assessments and community-led design of health programs.
2. Capacity Building:
o Strengthen the capacity of community members through education and training.
o Empower them with the skills to participate effectively in health initiatives.
3. Cultivating Local Leaders:
o Identify and support local leaders who can advocate for the community’s health needs.
o These leaders can facilitate communication between the community and health authorities.
4. Transparent Communication:
o Maintain open and ongoing communication with the community.
o Use clear, accessible language and multiple channels to reach different groups.
5. Feedback Mechanisms:
o Establish systems for community feedback and ensure that it is used to inform policy and program adjustments.
o Regularly update the community on how their input has shaped health services.
6. Cultural Competence:
o Health programs should respect and integrate local cultural practices and beliefs.
o Training healthcare workers in cultural competence can improve service delivery and trust.
7. Community Health Workers:
o Utilize community health workers who understand local contexts and can bridge the gap between health services and the community.
8. Local Coalitions and Networks:
o Support the formation of local coalitions or networks that can unify different community groups around common health goals.
9. Social Innovation:
o Encourage social innovation that allows communities to develop solutions tailored to their unique challenges and resources.
10. Monitoring and Evaluation:
o Include community members in monitoring and evaluation efforts to ensure programs are meeting their needs and to foster a sense of ownership.
By implementing these strategies, health coverage expansion efforts can be more community-driven, culturally sensitive, and sustainable, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and increased community empowerment.
David Wilson / Expert
What legal frameworks and policies are necessary to protect the rights of vulnerable populations in the context of expanding health coverage?
Anonymous
Legal frameworks play a crucial role in supporting healthcare systems and ensuring the provision of essential services. Here are some key components and legal measures:
1. Health System Governance Laws:
o Laws that organize and manage health systems.
o They allocate responsibilities, set standards, and authorize actions.
2. Rights Protection Laws:
o Legal frameworks that protect patients’ rights to access health care.
o These laws ensure equitable treatment, privacy, and informed consent.
3. Access to Health Services Laws:
o Legislation that promotes access to affordable, safe, and quality health services.
o It includes laws related to health insurance, service availability, and affordability.
4. Public Health Risk Management Laws:
o Laws addressing prevention and management of public health risks.
o These cover areas like disease control, emergency preparedness, and environmental health.
5. Social Determinants of Health Laws:
o Legal measures that address social factors influencing health.
o These include laws related to education, housing, employment, and poverty reduction.
6. Capacity-Building for Stakeholders:
o Legal instruments should enhance capacities among policymakers, regulators, service providers, and civil society.
o Training and awareness are essential.
7. Collaboration Across Sectors:
o Legal frameworks should facilitate collaboration between health and other sectors (e.g., education, environment, social services).
o Interconnected challenges require multisectoral approaches.
In summary, modern legal frameworks are needed to establish health system governance, protect rights, ensure access to services, prevent health risks, and address social determinants of health.
David Wilson / Expert
The moderator now presents a word cloud generated by all of you on what is the most important thing to improve health.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
What role do you see technology playing in improving healthcare delivery and accessibility, especially in remote areas?
Anonymous
Technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare delivery and accessibility, particularly in remote areas. Here are some key ways in which technology can make a significant impact:
1. Telehealth Services:
o Telehealth uses telecommunications technology to conduct and supplement clinical healthcare services, including education, administrative functions, and professional consultations provided at a distance1.
o It can reduce challenges related to traveling for specialty care, making healthcare more accessible to those in remote locations1.
2. Health Information Technology (HIT):
o HIT involves using technology to store, secure, retrieve, and transfer protected health information electronically within healthcare systems and community settings.
o This can improve monitoring, timeliness, and communications throughout the healthcare system.
3. Telemedicine:
o Telemedicine is the remote delivery of healthcare services, allowing medical care from a distance and addressing geographical barriers that often hinder access in remote regions.
4. Mobile Health (mHealth):
o mHealth applications can provide health-related services through mobile devices, facilitating patient engagement, monitoring, and health management.
5. Electronic Health Records (EHRs):
o EHRs enable the secure sharing of patient data among healthcare providers, improving the continuity of care and reducing duplication of services.
6. IoT, 5G, and Cloud Computing:
o The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, 5G networks, and cloud computing can ensure 24/7 accessibility of healthcare facilities and resources, even in rural areas with fewer healthcare facilities.
7. Digital Health Literacy Programs:
o Enhancing digital health literacy is crucial for enabling patients to access health information and telehealth services effectively.
8. Support for Healthcare Teams:
o Technology offers support to healthcare providers in remote areas by enabling seamless connectivity among healthcare teams and patients, ensuring data security, and enhancing care efficiency.
9. Infrastructure Development:
o Investing in infrastructure such as broadband services is essential for supporting telehealth and HIT systems in rural areas.
By leveraging these technological advancements, healthcare systems can optimize delivery and potentially close gaps in access to care, especially in underserved rural communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of many of these technologies, and some policy changes have become permanent, further facilitating the use of telehealth and HIT.
David Wilson / Expert
What are the potential long-term economic benefits of investing in universal health coverage, and how can these benefits be quantified?
Anonymous
Investing in universal health coverage (UHC) has several potential long-term economic benefits, which can contribute to the overall development and stability of a country. Here are some key advantages:
1. Improved Health Outcomes:
o UHC leads to better health outcomes by ensuring that all individuals have access to necessary healthcare services without financial hardship.
o Healthier populations are more productive and contribute more effectively to the economy.
2. Economic Growth:
o By reducing the burden of healthcare costs, UHC can increase disposable income and consumer spending, which in turn stimulates economic growth.
o It also creates jobs in the healthcare sector and related industries.
3. Reduction in Poverty:
o UHC protects families from the catastrophic financial impact of healthcare expenses, which is a common cause of poverty1.
o It ensures that people do not have to choose between healthcare and other basic needs.
4. Enhanced Labor Market Efficiency:
o With UHC, workers are less likely to stay in unproductive jobs due to employer-based health insurance. This increases labor market flexibility and efficiency3.
o Healthy workers are more reliable and can work longer before retirement, contributing to the labor force for an extended period.
5. Social Stability and Equity:
o UHC promotes social cohesion by reducing health disparities between different segments of the population4.
o It supports vulnerable populations and helps build a more inclusive society.
6. Long-term Cost Savings:
o Preventive care and early treatment, which are more accessible under UHC, can lead to significant long-term cost savings by avoiding more expensive treatments later.
o It can also reduce the spread of communicable diseases, saving costs on public health emergencies.
7. Attracting Investment:
o Countries with strong healthcare systems are more attractive to foreign investors, as they offer a healthier workforce and lower healthcare-related costs.
8. Innovation and Research:
o UHC can drive innovation in healthcare delivery and technology, leading to advancements that can be exported and contribute to economic growth.
9. Global Competitiveness:
o Nations with UHC are better positioned to compete in the global market, as they can offer a healthy, productive workforce and lower healthcare costs for employers and employees.
10. Sustainable Development:
o UHC is a key factor in achieving sustainable development goals, as it intersects with various aspects of development, including education, gender equality, and economic stability.
In summary, the long-term economic benefits of UHC are substantial and multifaceted, contributing not only to the health of individuals but also to the broader economic and social fabric of a country.
David Wilson / Expert
What strategies are most effective in reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different socio-economic groups within a country?
Anonymous
Reducing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different socio-economic groups within a country is crucial for achieving health equity. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Health Education and Literacy:
o Promote health literacy through community-based programs, workshops, and educational campaigns.
o Ensure that information is accessible, culturally sensitive, and available in multiple languages.
2. Community Health Workers (CHWs):
o Train and deploy CHWs to provide personalized health education, navigation, and support.
o CHWs can bridge gaps between healthcare providers and underserved communities.
3. Targeted Outreach Programs:
o Design outreach initiatives specifically for socio-economically disadvantaged groups.
o These programs can raise awareness, offer screenings, and connect individuals to healthcare services.
4. Affordable Healthcare Services:
o Implement policies to reduce out-of-pocket costs for low-income populations.
o Expand insurance coverage and subsidize healthcare expenses.
5. Mobile Clinics and Telehealth:
o Mobile clinics can reach remote areas, providing essential services.
o Telehealth enables virtual consultations, especially useful for rural populations.
6. Culturally Competent Care:
o Train healthcare providers to understand diverse cultural backgrounds.
o Respect patients’ beliefs, practices, and preferences.
7. Social Determinants of Health:
o Address social determinants such as housing, employment, and nutrition.
o Collaborate with non-health sectors to improve overall well-being.
8. Equitable Distribution of Healthcare Facilities:
o Ensure that healthcare facilities are distributed fairly across regions.
o Prioritize underserved areas for infrastructure development.
9. Data Collection and Monitoring:
o Collect disaggregated data to identify disparities.
o Monitor progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
10. Policy Advocacy and Legislation:
o Advocate for policies that promote equity, such as anti-discrimination laws and equal access to care.
o Engage policymakers to prioritize health equity.
A comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders, including government, healthcare providers, communities, and NGOs, is essential for reducing disparities and achieving health equity
David Wilson / Expert
How can efforts to expand health coverage be designed to address the unique healthcare needs and challenges faced by women and girls?
Anonymous
Efforts to expand health coverage can be specifically designed to address the unique healthcare needs and challenges faced by women and girls by incorporating the following strategies:
1. Comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health Services:
o Ensure access to a full range of services, including family planning, prenatal and postnatal care, and screenings for reproductive cancers.
o Address the specific needs of women and girls in different life stages, from adolescence through menopause.
2. Gender-Sensitive Policies:
o Develop policies that take into account the social determinants of health affecting women and girls, such as education, employment, and cultural norms.
o Implement legal protections against discrimination in healthcare settings.
3. Education and Empowerment Programs:
o Educate women and girls about their health rights and the services available to them.
o Empower them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
4. Targeted Financing:
o Allocate funds specifically for programs that support women’s health, such as maternal health initiatives and cervical cancer screenings.
o Provide subsidies or free services for low-income women and girls.
5. Community-Based Health Initiatives:
o Engage community leaders and organizations in designing and implementing health programs that are culturally appropriate and accessible.
o Utilize community health workers to provide education and outreach in local languages.
6. Inclusive Insurance Coverage:
o Design insurance plans that cover essential services for women, including contraception, maternity care, and mental health services.
o Remove barriers to enrollment and ensure affordability for all women and girls.
7. Research and Data Collection:
o Conduct gender-disaggregated research to better understand the health needs of women and girls.
o Use data to tailor interventions and monitor progress towards gender equity in health.
8. Partnerships and Collaboration:
o Collaborate with NGOs, civil society, and international organizations to leverage expertise and resources.
o Partner with the private sector to innovate and improve healthcare delivery for women and girls.
By focusing on these areas, health coverage expansion efforts can be more effective in meeting the unique needs of women and girls, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and gender equality.
David Wilson / Expert
That concludes the discussion. Thank you to all who tuned in! The event recording is available on this page. Sorry for the few questions we were not able to answer due to time constraints.
Erick Rabemananoro / Moderator
Watch the event replays, read the recaps, and find out about the latest announcements on increasing energy access across Africa and expanding health coverage worldwide. We received over 600 questions online, and our experts responded to over 200 of them in the chat during the live sessions.
President, World Bank Group
Minister of Finance, Japan
Minister of Finance, Arab Republic of Egypt
Minister of Finance, Indonesia
Executive Director, RESULTS
CEO, Sothema
Vice President of Global Programs, The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation
International broadcast journalist
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