Getting more for our current spending is a smart way to improve health system performance. That rings especially true in the current context: budgets are tight and health expenditures are projected to increase by 3% annually in real terms. Increasing the returns to health spending is good for health outcomes and it can support the argument for increasing the relatively low … [Read more...] about Is it possible to achieve more health per dollar spent? Potential gains by improving health spending efficiency
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A healthy discussion: the health sector in the climate agenda
The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) saw important advances on the green transition. Still, it also helped shape the climate agenda in other ways, including recognizing health policy as a critical area to address regarding climate change. A health day was recognized for the first time, with leaders emphasizing the importance of protecting people from the impact … [Read more...] about A healthy discussion: the health sector in the climate agenda
Does health insurance for the informal sector have an impact on formal employment?
Does expanding social protection schemes substantially increase informality? Whether there is such a trade-off is a key question for policymakers wanting to protect workers and their families from economic and health shocks but concerned not to generate negative side-effects. The case for social protection is clear. There are global commitments such as the … [Read more...] about Does health insurance for the informal sector have an impact on formal employment?
Digital Therapeutics: Will you be downloading your next treatment for diabetes or depression?
Healthcare in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is overdue for an upgrade. Are there digital health investments that governments can make today to both curb the growth of non-communicable diseases and start them on the path of sustainable digital transformation? If you happen to be reading this blog on your smartphone, you might be aware that your app store is full of … [Read more...] about Digital Therapeutics: Will you be downloading your next treatment for diabetes or depression?
Self-directed Care: the Benefits of Cash and Counseling
Meet Elizabeth, an 80-year-old widow with multiple chronic health conditions for years. Previously, she relied solely on her daughter Angela for unpaid assistance with personal care and household tasks. Angela lives close by and cares for Elizabeth before or after going to her job at a local supermarket and on her days off. Unfortunately, Elizabeth’s needs for assistance became … [Read more...] about Self-directed Care: the Benefits of Cash and Counseling