Technical Efficiency of District Hospitals in Namibia
Author Information
Author(s): Zere Eyob, Mbeeli Thomas, Shangula Kalumbi, Mandlhate Custodia, Mutirua Kautoo, Tjivambi Ben, Kapenambili William
Primary Institution: World Health Organization
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the technical efficiency of district hospitals in Namibia to identify potential resource gains.
Conclusion
The study concludes that the level of technical inefficiency in district hospitals is high, which may hinder efforts to improve healthcare access and quality.
Supporting Evidence
- Less than half of the hospitals were on the technically efficient frontier.
- The average technical efficiency level was less than 75%.
- Inefficiency levels ranged from 26% to 37%, indicating significant potential resource savings.
Takeaway
The hospitals in Namibia are not using their resources well, which means they could be doing a better job at helping people with their health.
Methodology
Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to assess technical efficiency based on inputs like recurrent expenditure, beds, and nursing staff, and outputs like outpatient visits and inpatient days.
Limitations
The study faced limitations due to incomplete data for some hospitals and years, which affected the robustness of the analysis.
Participant Demographics
The study included all public sector hospitals in Namibia, totaling 30 hospitals across 13 regions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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