Title:
An Assessment of the Financial Resource Allocation Criteria for Districts Health Services in Zambia : From an Equity Perspective
Authors:
Chileshe, Lee
Year:
2013
PAGE:
xi, 52
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Poverty
Keywords:
Resource Allocation, Equity, Efficiency, Zambia
Abstract:
Background: As a way of increasing objectivity and transparency in the allocation of financial resources to district health services, the Ministry of Health introduced and implemented a Resource Allocation Formula (RAF) in 1994. Further revisions to the RAF were made in 2004 and 2008/09. Objective: the main objective/aim of this study is to critically review the financial RA formula/criteria across districts in Zambia in order to assess its potential impact on equity and provide recommendations to the Zambian Government. Method: A review of literature on health care financing and resource allocation criteria. Literature on resource allocation criteria is analyzed based on budget levels of allocation, releases and expenditures, as well as using the relevant existing theories on equity. A framework for assessment of the formula is introduced in chapter 5 in order to guide the discussion. Result: The results of the study reveal that after its revision in 2008/09, the financial RAF was more resolute and equity focused as compared to the 2004 formula. However, despite the 2008 formula being more equity focused, its application is limited. Only three (3) districts had financial resources allocated in accordance with the formula while the other 69 districts continued receiving funds either above or below the formula. This suggests that resource allocation formulas are not always adhered to in actual allocations and releases of funds. Conclusion and Recommendation: The formula has not comprehensively incorporated all important need areas, and is yet to be applied fully in Zambia. The study recommends the need to further revise the formula to link disease and demographic composition variables, while at the same time strengthening monitoring of the implementation process.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Country:
Zambia
Region:
Southern Africa
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2013 Chileshe
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
pcCGoNQ9ls_20161024121247164.pdf