Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Ghana: Panel Data Estimation for Measuring Efficiency Gains
Year: 2002
Type: article
Abstract: Community health centres (CHCs) in Ghana play a pivotal role in providing primary healthcare services to underserved populations. Despite their importance, there is limited empirical evidence on how efficiently these facilities operate. A panel data regression model was employed using cross-sectional survey data collected from eight randomly selected CHCs over two years. The model is specified as: $Y_{it} = eta_0 + eta_1X_{it} + u_i$, where $Y_{it}$ represents the efficiency score of a CHC, $X_{it}$ includes inputs such as staff numbers and clinic size, and $u_i$ accounts for unobserved heterogeneity across CHCs. The analysis revealed that an increase in healthcare personnel by 10% leads to a 5.2% improvement in efficiency scores (95% confidence interval: [3.4%, 7.0%]). This study underscores the potential for enhancing CHC operational efficiency through targeted human resource investments, providing evidence-based recommendations for policy-makers. Policy interventions should focus on increasing staff numbers and improving training programmes to align with current health needs in Ghanaian communities.
Authors: Atta, Atsimevu, Boateng, Kofi
Institution: University of Ghana
Language: English
Field: Decision Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7131069596
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: