Abstract
In this article, we address health-care delivery systems (HDS) as the organized response of society to the health problems of its population. We describe universal building blocks of HDSs, being governance, financing, human and capital resources, quality assurance, and health-care provision. The influence of societal and epidemiological changes on the focus of health care is addressed and differences between HDSs in high- and low-income countries are addressed. In high-income countries, different models of HDS can be defined, based on their position on three axes: financing, workforce payment, and governance. We conclude with the observation that in high-income countries, HDSs move forward due to the believe in solidarity and the changing view of the role of the state, but also due to ensuring financial sustainability. In middle and lower income countries, currently universal health coverage is the more important issue.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | International Encyclopedia of Public Health |
Editors | Stella R. Quah |
Place of Publication | Oxford |
Publisher | Academic Press |
Volume | 3 |
Edition | 2 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780128037089 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780128036785 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2016 |