Analysis of Factors Affecting Provision of Quality Health Services by the Government to the Population in Somaliland

Abstract

Universal access to quality health care is an ideal goal for all nations. Governments often base their health care development plans on this principle. Indeed according to the World Health Organisation, better health is central to human happiness and well-being. It also makes an important contribution to economic progress, as healthy populations live longer, are more productive, and save more. As globalization spreads its effects on various aspects of human livelihood, global health is increasingly of international concern, especially with regard to disease prevention and control, and more so, promotion of good health worldwide. This research was undertaken to establish what factors affect the provision of quality health services by the government of Somaliland to the population it serves. The little known region is located to the North-west of Somalia, and is a breakaway Republic operating under a de facto government since 1991. The study was undertaken as a cross-sectional survey of identified stakeholders supporting the health sector in Somaliland, including the Ministry of Health and Labour staff, the UN and International agencies directly providing financial and technical support to health care operations. In total, the sample size target was 40 respondents. The data collection effort was performed using a mixture of structured interviews and questionnaires distributed using the ‘drop and pick’ method. The survey instruments were pretested before being finalised, the analysis of the interviews was quantitative as well as qualitative. The study found that the problems affecting quality of health services at Somaliland were; Unqualified staff, Lack of specialized professionals, Lack of enough funds, Health facilities being in poor condition, lack of enough health facilities, attendance of too many workshops/trainings by health staff, Inadequate supervision by managers, Staff preferring to refer patients to private services offered, Cost of services, Lack of drugs / supplies, Lack of equipment, Poor infrastructure / road network, Inadequate transportation services and Poor coordination of supporting agencies The study recommends that in the government in Somaliland should train more professional staff, provide quality drugs, ensure better management of health facilities, build more health facilities, work closely with local NGO in provision of health facilities, overcome cultural and traditional barriers and increase security for those providing health services.