How Health Managers in Ghana Handle Delayed Funding
Author Information
Author(s): Asante Augustine D, Zwi Anthony B, Ho Maria T
Primary Institution: The University of New South Wales
Hypothesis
How does the untimely release of public sector health funds in Ghana affect district health activities and the coping strategies of district managers?
Conclusion
Recognizing informal managerial strategies can help reduce corruption risks and improve health service delivery in Ghana.
Supporting Evidence
- District health managers often rely on informal mechanisms to cope with funding delays.
- Delays in funding negatively impact the implementation of health programs and staff morale.
- Managers obtain supplies on credit and borrow cash internally to maintain operations.
Takeaway
Health managers in Ghana often have to wait a long time for money to run their health services, so they find creative ways to keep things going, like borrowing supplies.
Methodology
Qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews with 16 district health managers in two regions of Ghana.
Potential Biases
Potential for corruption exists in informal coping mechanisms used by managers.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to the limited number of regions and districts covered.
Participant Demographics
Participants included eight directors of health services and eight district health accountants from Northern and Ashanti regions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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