The Hieroglyphs of Health

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

Unveiling the Progression Pathway: A Solution to Failing Health Systems

As the world strives to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it's evident that current efforts are falling short. Health service coverage has plateaued, and the burden of catastrophic out-of-pocket health spending is soaring. Moreover, the private sector's role in healthcare delivery and financing is expanding rapidly, yet it often operates in an under-governed environment, impacting health equity, access, quality, and efficiency.

Recognizing the urgent need for a paradigm shift, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the Progression Pathway for the Governance of Mixed Health Systems. This innovative tool aims to revitalize and fortify existing domestic governance arrangements, fostering collaboration and information sharing among all health actors, be it public or private.

At its core, the Progression Pathway delineates six critical governance behaviors, each linked to a set of related mechanisms aimed at influencing the operation and performance of the private health sector. Through a nuanced progression framework comprising four levels – Nascent, Developing, Progressing, and Established – the Pathway charts the trajectory towards governance effectiveness.

 

Let's take a closer look at what progress looks like in relation to the six governance behaviors:

 1. Deliver Strategy: Governments formulate up-to-date documents outlining clear strategies to influence the private sector's operation and performance in alignment with health objectives.

 2. Align Structures: The private sector becomes integrated into and aligned with public health programs and initiatives, ensuring coherence and synergy.

 3. Build Understanding: Comprehensive data is organized and accessible, empowering evidence-based strategic and operational decision-making processes.

 4. Enable Stakeholders: Regulatory and financing interventions are implemented to enable private providers to actively contribute to health policy goals, fostering collaboration and partnership.

 5. Nurture Trust: Robust mechanisms are established to ensure that patients' rights are upheld when receiving care in the
private sector, instilling confidence and accountability.

 6. Foster Relations: Platforms for policy dialogue are established, fostering meaningful engagement and encouraging the private sector to establish representative bodies, ensuring inclusivity and transparency.

As nations embark on their journey towards health systems transformation, the Progression Pathway stands as a steadfast companion, illuminating the path towards equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all. With concerted efforts and unwavering commitment, we can harness the potential of the private sector while safeguarding the principles of health equity and dignity for every individual.