How Africa’s Political Challenges Impede Healthcare Advancement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60787/tnhj.v24i4.831Keywords:
African healthcare system, political instability and health, governance and healthcare in AfricaAbstract
Background: African countries are increasingly facing significant political difficulties, which have had profound impacts on their healthcare systems. Hence, the necessity to examine the effects of political instability on healthcare delivery in Africa and to propose solutions for improving healthcare systems in the context of ongoing political challenges.
Method: This commentary utilizes a review of recent literature from Google Scholar and MEDLINE to analyze the impact of political unrest on healthcare delivery in Africa. Key themes include the effects of coups, biased leadership appointments, and financial implications on healthcare infrastructure and services
Results: Political instability has significantly slowed down development and disrupted healthcare delivery. Biased appointments in healthcare leadership, ineffective succession planning, and high turnover rates contribute to sector instability. Vulnerable demographics, particularly women and children, bear the brunt of these disruptions. Poor leadership results in financial anxiety, inadequate healthcare investment, and increased out-of-pocket expenses for the population.
Conclusion: To address these issues, African nations should prioritize political stability and good governance, invest in leadership development, strengthen their health systems, and increase health spending. These measures are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of political instability on healthcare delivery and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Owhor GA, Adekoya OO, Ezenwafor CC, Okoli EA, Chikezie NC, Shomuyiwa DO
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