Assessment of health systems, financing and policy options in Arequipa Region, Peru

Detailed quantitative and qualitative information is presented on the structure, utilization, operating costs, and financing systems of public (Ministry of Health), quasi-public (Social Security), and private health services in the Arequipa Region. Also presented are the results of a household survey, carried out to obtain information on health service utilization patterns. The information, which serves as a baseline for development of sound health resource allocation and financing policy, is used to generate recommendations for action by the Regional Government of Arequipa and USAID/Lima. Recommendations are presented for ways in which the regional government can take a more active leadership role in health policy formulation; more effectively generate revenue within Ministry of Health facilities; and more appropriately allocate scarce public health resources to the region"s population. The report also provides recommendations for involvement by USAID/Lima in strengthening regional health resources. (Author abstract)