A Strategy for Health Care in West Africa

Abstract

This paper discusses major issues in health strategy in West Africa, particularly in the seven countries covered by the Onchocerciasis Control Program: Benin, Chana, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Togo, and Upper Volta. After surveying health status and resources in the region, problems and deficiencies in the health systems are analyzed: limited coverage and impact: inefficient resource use (weak planning and management, unbalanced budget mix, undeveloped referral systems); underutilization of private energies and foreign aid. These deficiencies are explained by lack of tested alternative models, shortages of money, manpower and administration, lacks in available technology, and inadequate understanding about how the health care market works. Elements of a recommended health strategy are set out, including: strengthening the existing infrastructure, reducing costs, using private resources and incentives better, and gradually expanding rural health systems.