Report highlights improved systems at health facilities, some meeting national standards
Shillong, Sep 1: The World Bank–supported Meghalaya Health Systems Strengthening Project (MHSSP) has shown steady gains in the past four years and likely to achieve its targets before the scheduled deadline.
Since the launch of MHSSP in 2021, several health facilities have achieved national certifications and nursing schools undergoing infrastructure upgrades, according to a latest World Bank report.
The $40-million project aims to improve management capacity, quality, and utilisation of health services in the state.
The project is “on track” to meet its targets ahead of its scheduled closure in 2027, according to the World Bank’s ninth Implementation Status and Results Report, archived on August 29.
MHSSP is designed to enhance the health system performance and quality of services through strategic investment in the areas of program management, health insurance and quality of service delivery.
The report states that multiple district and community health facilities have upgraded services, with several now meeting national quality certification standards.
Medical education is receiving a boost through simulation-based training for doctors and nurses, updated curricula, and enhanced tutor training. Infrastructure improvements in nursing schools are also under way to help meet the state’s shortage of high-quality nurses, stated the report.
The report also highlights improvements in service delivery. More than 127,000 people have accessed essential health, nutrition, and population services, and patient satisfaction scores in targeted health facilities have risen significantly.
The project has also developed a human resources strategy for health, backed by data collection and analysis, while reducing stock-outs of essential drugs in targeted facilities. Insurance coverage has expanded, with 88% of households now enrolled under government schemes, surpassing the project’s end target.
The project combines results-based financing and input-based financing approaches to achieve enhanced performance management in the public sector.
It also aims to support the state in implementing the Ayushman Bharat strategy for strengthening Health and Wellness Centres, with capacity to provide an expanded package of services.
In the report, some indicators, however, are lagging. Timely performance payments to facilities have faced local hurdles, and National Quality Assurance Standards certification for district hospitals is behind schedule, prompting suggestions for restructuring. The overall risk rating remains “substantial,” particularly in terms of institutional capacity and governance.
“Overall, the project is fostering a more integrated, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare system, with positive impacts across service delivery and education” the report states.
