Efficiency of Zambian Hospitals
Author Information
Author(s): Masiye Felix
Primary Institution: Harvard University Initiative for Global Health
Hypothesis
How efficient are hospitals in Zambia in utilizing their resources?
Conclusion
Zambian hospitals are operating at only 67% efficiency, indicating significant resource wastage.
Supporting Evidence
- Only 40% of hospitals were efficient in relative terms.
- The average efficiency score was 67%, indicating potential for significant resource savings.
- Input congestion and unsuitable hospital size were identified as major sources of inefficiency.
Takeaway
The study found that Zambian hospitals could do the same work with 30% less resources, meaning they are wasting a lot of what they have.
Methodology
Data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used to measure the efficiency of hospital inputs and outputs.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and lacked quality-adjusted output data.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 18 government hospitals, 8 church mission hospitals, and 4 private hospitals, with 53% located in rural areas.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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