Reversing the trend of weak policy implementation in the Kenyan health sector? – a study of budget allocation and spending of health resources versus set priorities
2007

Assessing Health Policy Implementation in Kenya

Sample size: 12 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Glenngård Anna H, Maina Thomas M

Primary Institution: The Swedish Institute for Health Economics (IHE)

Hypothesis

Was there a change in policy implementation during 2005 in Kenya's health sector?

Conclusion

The study found no evidence that the trend of weak policy implementation in the Kenyan health sector was reversed during 2005.

Supporting Evidence

  • Budget allocations and actual expenditures often contradict policy objectives.
  • Delays in fund disbursement and weak procurement systems hinder effective spending.
  • Efforts to improve fund release may enhance absorption capacity at the district level.

Takeaway

The Kenyan health sector is struggling to use its budget effectively, which means that even though more money is being allocated, it isn't being spent in ways that help people get better health care.

Methodology

The study used budget estimates, interviews with key stakeholders, and government and donor documentation to assess budget allocations and actual expenditures.

Potential Biases

Interviews were conducted with key informants, which may introduce bias based on their perspectives.

Limitations

The study is limited to the case of the health care system of Kenya and focuses on the year 2005.

Participant Demographics

Key stakeholders included senior staff from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, multilateral organizations, and bilateral donor organizations.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1478-4505-5-3

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