The Hieroglyphs of Health

The Roadmap for Private Sector Engagement in Egypt's Health Sector Series

What is The Progression Pathway for Private Sector Engagement in Health

Improving healthcare access and quality is a global imperative, especially as we strive to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, existing efforts have fallen short, with health service coverage stagnating and out-of-pocket health spending skyrocketing.

Recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector in healthcare delivery and financing, the World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced the Progression Pathway for the Governance of Mixed Health Systems. This practical tool aims to bolster governments' capacity to govern health systems effectively, particularly focusing on the governance of the private health sector.

The Progression Pathway addresses two crucial trends: the faltering progress towards UHC and the escalating involvement of the private sector in healthcare. To realign efforts and strengthen health systems, a paradigm shift is imperative, necessitating the rebuilding and fortification of existing domestic governance structures.

So, how can the Progression Pathway aid in this transformation?

1. Identifying a Destination: Governments and national health authorities can define clear strategic goals for the health system and delineate the roles of the private sector in achieving these objectives.

2. Taking Stock: By assessing existing governance arrangements and identifying areas for improvement, countries can tailor strategies to enhance governance effectiveness.

3. Defining a Way Forward: Through targeted actions and strategies, governments can build the capacity to make and implement health policies that improve healthcare access, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

The Progression Pathway is structured around six key governance behaviors:

1. Deliver Strategy: Governments articulate clear strategic goals for the health system and the roles of the private sector, supported by resource allocation policies.

2. Enable Stakeholders: Governments influence the private health sector through regulation and financing to promote patient safety and quality of care.

3. Foster Relations: Inclusive policy processes ensure active participation from stakeholders, fostering transparency and inclusivity.

4. Build Understanding: Access to comprehensive data on the private sector's operation and performance informs strategic decision-making.

5. Align Structures: Organizational structures support coordination between the public and private sectors, ensuring operational alignment with national strategies.

6. Nurture Trust: Governments protect patients' rights and financial welfare, fostering trust by holding both sectors to the same accountability standards.