The governance of private sector engagement in health in the African Region: a descriptive case study
# Background It is estimated that the private sector plays a significant role in service delivery and training within African health systems. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, 35% of outpatient care is provided by the private-for-profit sector, and in some countries, an additional 17% is delivere...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
International Society of Global Health
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Journal of Global Health Economics and Policy |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.52872/001c.129034 |
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| Summary: | # Background
It is estimated that the private sector plays a significant role in service delivery and training within African health systems. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, 35% of outpatient care is provided by the private-for-profit sector, and in some countries, an additional 17% is delivered by informal private providers. Given this substantial role, it is crucial for the public sector to engage the private sector and vice versa---referred to as private sector engagement (PSE). As a first step towards PSE, we aimed to understand the current status of PSE in health within the African Region.
# Methods
This study employed a descriptive case study approach, which was based on (i) a survey of stakeholders from the public sector, private sector, and development partners, as well as (ii) presentations and deliberations at a WHO-hosted multi-country consultation in the African Region on PSE to advance progress towards Universal Health Coverage.
# Results
The findings demonstrate that the private sector plays a significant role in health systems in the African Region, with increasing momentum for dialogue on PSE in health in selected countries. For instance, a multi-stakeholder analysis and dialogue was conducted in Nigeria; a strategy to strengthen the health system through the private sector was developed in Senegal; and a PSE Forum was held and a technical working group was established in Sierra Leone.
# Conclusions
Ultimately, the study underscores how increased dialogue on PSE offers an opportunity to adopt more multisectoral, whole-of-society approaches and calls on stakeholders to take action. |
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| ISSN: | 2806-6073 |