Why GHSIAs?

The idea behind Global Health Systems Impact Assessments is actually quite simple: all global health activities should consider the impact that they have on the underlying health system before their activity begins. The need for these assessments stems from three facts:

1. Millions suffer and die needlessly around the world, mostly in developing countries. This blog will assume that there is agreement on this point. (If needed, however, see here, here, here, here, or here)

2. Functional, vibrant health systems are needed to ensure health. This blog will discuss some of the evidence and rational behind that claim. However, much information can be found on the “Health Systems Links” on the right side of this blog’s home page.

3. Targeted health programs have significant impacts on the underlying health systems, both positively and negatively, sometimes with disastrous consequences. While this blog will likely discuss examples of such programs, documentation can also be found here, here, and here.

We request, then, that all global health program planners in all organizations – from multimillion dollar donors like the global fund and the Gates foundation to district health leaders in Africa – consider the impact that their respective activities will have on health systems building blocks like service delivery mechanisms, the health workforce, and health technologies. This planning, we predict, will lead to systems in developing countries that are less dependent on developed countries’ funds and technical support, and better prepared to respond to future health challenges.

For more on the need for GHSIAs, see here.