SAFEGUARDING THE HEALTH SECTOR IN TIMES OF MACROECONOMIC INSTABILITY: POLICY LESSONS FOR LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES

Safeguarding the Health Sector in Times of Macroeconomic Instability presents the results of an international initiative to document the effects of how health systems in the developing world have responded to macroeconomic austerity and adjustment measures. Are these systems flexible and resilient to changes or are they rigid? In which circumstances and under which conditions do health systems respond favourably or unfavourably? What are the success stories? Country studies from Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, India, Thailand, Mexico, and Colombia discuss lessons learned and identify policy measures for safeguarding the health sector.

This book provides a fresh look at the relationships between macroeconomic policy and interventions, health sector reform, and the health system in general, presenting new and detailed observations to inform policy choices within the health-care sector worldwide. It is unique in its focus on health systems and services (including financing, quality, accessibility, and utilization), rather than on health status. It will be of interest to academics, researchers, and students studying or active in health sciences and international development studies; professionals and practitioners in donor organizations, development organizations, and NGOs worldwide; and policy advisors and decision-makers in the health-care sector.