Perspectives on Rebuilding Health System Governance in Opposition-Controlled Syria: A Qualitative Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK

Abstract

Background
Ongoing conflict and systematic targeting of health facilities and personnel by the Syrian regime in opposition-controlled areas have contributed to health system and governance mechanisms collapse. Health directorates (HDs) were established in opposition-held areas in 2014 by the interim (opposition) Ministry of Health (MoH), to meet emerging needs. As the local health authorities responsible for health system governance in opposition-controlled areas in Syria, they face many challenges. This study explores ongoing health system governance efforts in 5 opposition-controlled areas in Syria.
 
Methods
A qualitative study design was selected, using in-depth key informant interviews with 20 participants purposely sampled from HDs, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), donors, and service-users. Data were analysed thematically.
 
Results
Health system governance elements (ie, strategic vision, participation, transparency, responsiveness, equity, effectiveness, accountability, information) were considered important, but not interpreted or addressed equally in opposition-controlled areas. Participants identified HDs as primarily responsible for health system governance in opposition-controlled areas. Main health system governance challenges identified were security (eg, targeting of health facilities and personnel), funding, and capacity. Suggested solutions included supporting HDs, addressing health-worker loss, and improving coordination.
 
Conclusion
Rebuilding health system governance in opposition-controlled areas in Syria is already progressing, despite ongoing conflict. Local health authorities need support to overcome identified challenges and build sustainable health system governance mechanisms.

Highlights

 

Watch the Video Summary here.

 

Keywords

Main Subjects


 

 

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Volume 8, Issue 4
April 2019
Pages 233-244
  • Receive Date: 19 May 2018
  • Revise Date: 17 December 2018
  • Accept Date: 17 December 2018
  • First Publish Date: 01 April 2019