Systems Thinking for Capacity in Health
We believe that systems thinking and complexity science can be transformational in global health by increasing local capacity and shared learning, and minimizing unintended consequences.
Health Systems Strengthening Guiding Principles Published
“Toward a Consensus on Guiding Principles for Health Systems Strengthening” was published in PLoS Medicine. It is open access, available to all. I have reproduced a summary list of the principles below. In the coming weeks, I will be posting on next steps: advocacy, application, education, research, etc.
Ten Health Systems Strengthening Guiding Principles
1. HOLISM
* Consider all systems components, processes, and relationships simultaneously.
* Include all health systems strengthening principles listed below.
2. CONTEXT
* Consider global, national, regional, and local culture and politics.
3. SOCIAL MOBILIZATION
* Mobilize and advocate for social and political change to strengthen health systems and address the social determinants of health.
4. COLLABORATION
* Develop long-term, equal, and respectful partnerships between donors and recipients within the health sector and among other sectors.
* Develop and commit to a shared vision among partners by challenging underlying beliefs and assumptions.
* Ensure frequent communication among actors.
5. CAPACITY ENHANCEMENT
* Enhance capacity and ownership at all levels, from individuals and households to ministries of health, including leadership, management, institutional strengthening, and problem solving.
6. EFFICIENCY
* Train and supervise the most appropriate personnel to meet health needs.
* Utilize appropriate technology.
* Coordinate external aid and activities.
* Minimize waste.
* Allocate funds where they are needed most.
7. EVIDENCE-INFORMED ACTION
* Strengthen structure, systems, and processes to gather, analyze, and apply data locally.
* Make decisions, whenever possible, based on evidence.
* Monitor progress of programs, and adjust accordingly.
* Ensure transparency and accountability.
8. EQUITY
* Target those who are disenfranchised.
* Plan for equity by empowering the disenfranchised, with a particular emphasis on gender.
* Disaggregate indicators to track disenfranchised groups.
9. FINANCIAL PROTECTION
* Ensure that funding streams are predictable.
* Consider insurance schemes to protect from financial catastrophes.
10. SATISFACTION
* Respond to needs and concerns of all stakeholders.
* Demonstrate accountability to constituents.
* Implement and respond to feedback mechanisms measuring quality and provider/client relationships.
Systems Thinking for Capacity in Health 