In their guide, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the critical importance of
political economy analysis (PEA) in health financing reforms.
By examining the interaction between political and economic factors, this analysis provides an
essential tool for understanding the power dynamics that shape health systems and financing.
The authors argue that reform efforts must consider these underlying factors to ensure the long-
term sustainability and effectiveness of universal health coverage (UHC).
The guide underscores the need for a strategic, contextual approach to health financing reforms,
taking into account various stakeholders’ power, interests, and positions.
It stresses that political and economic dynamics heavily influence reform processes, and
understanding these relationships is key to navigating the complexities of healthcare policy.
By incorporating PEA, policymakers can better design and implement reforms that are both
feasible and effective in achieving broader health system goals.
This approach aims to make health financing systems more equitable, efficient, and aligned with
UHC goals. It provides a structured method for analyzing political factors, facilitating more
informed decisions in health system planning and policy development.
The WHO guide emphasizes the importance of political economy analysis in shaping health financing reforms, ensuring that policies are politically feasible and strategically designed to support universal health coverage.
