Hakim

A Call for Health Sector Reform

The health sector receives significant financial investment and plays a vital role in society. However, despite substantial funding, it continues to face major challenges in resource utilization and workforce management. There are persistent inefficiencies in fund distribution at various levels, leading to mismanagement and wastage that deprive essential health services of necessary support.

This issue is particularly concerning as key international donors are reportedly reducing their aid. As a result, the sector must prioritize self-reliance and strengthen local capacities to manage emergencies and outbreaks effectively. The focus should now shift toward investing in local specialists, securing essential medicines, and ensuring the availability of emergency medical equipment. Relying solely on external assistance is no longer a sustainable option.

Furthermore, the limited resources available must be allocated wisely. Budget priorities should be guided by expert recommendations rather than unnecessary expenditures. In the past, hospitals that won performance-based rewards reportedly spent funds on luxury items instead of improving patient care. Such misallocation of resources must be addressed to ensure that every investment directly benefits the healthcare system.

To enhance accountability, a robust monitoring and control system should be established to track revenue collection and fund allocation. Financial losses often occur under the pretense of renovation projects, diverting resources away from patient care. Strengthening financial oversight mechanisms will help prevent such mismanagement and ensure that funds are used efficiently.

The decline of the health sector is not due to a lack of resources but rather systemic challenges in management, innovation, and accountability. Solutions must be driven by professionals committed to improving service delivery. It is essential to remove bureaucratic barriers that delay decision-making and hinder the efficient functioning of healthcare facilities. People in rural and underserved areas continue to face significant challenges in accessing essential care, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

The way forward requires decisive action to eliminate inefficiencies and rebuild a healthcare system that serves the public effectively. Now is the time to prioritize responsibility, transparency, and strategic leadership to create a stronger and more resilient health sector.

Jafer Aliyi (BSc, MPH)

@HakimEthio