Recommended readings
Assessing the impact of global health partnerships: country case study report (India, Sierra Leone, Uganda)
Global partnerships to tackle public health problems helped bring in more money
Authors:
C. Carlson; N. Druce; R.| Sadanandan
Publisher:
Department for International Development Health Resource Centre (HRC), 2004
This report, published by the DFID Health Resource Centre (HRC), looks at evidence on the impact of global health partnerships (GHPs) at the country level in India, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. It finds that GHPs brought in additional funds for health in all three countries, but their financing mechanisms were sometimes problematic. Heavy reliance on health systems sometimes limited their effectiveness and could increase inequalities. The report argues that the strength of GHP programmes was in focusing attention on a priority disease or health concern. However, they have been better at doing this in some areas (such as immunisation, polio, and TB) than others (such as malaria).
The report recommends that donors should invest more in strengthening health systems to complement resources brought in by GHPs. GHPs should be more explicit and accountable about the pro-poor objectives in their programmes. Post-conflict and difficult environment countries need a slower, more hands-on approach than other countries. Some countries have multiple programmes focusing on HIV and AIDS, and the GHPs should work with country partners to harmonise these programmes. Finally, the report suggests that careful assessment is needed before setting up new partnerships to tackle other public health problems.



