The Role of the Private Sector in Health Services: Lessons for ASEAN

Abstract

Developed and developing country governments look to privatization as a mechanism for increased efficiency in health services and as an avenue to financial relief for public-sector health programmes. Privatization takes the form of rational public pricing policy, contract ing of private vendors, transfer of ownership to private and quasi-public entities, and termi nation of public activities. The provision of curative services, medical education, and the production of medical supplies are prime areas for private-sector expansion. The public sec tor should continue to take primary responsibility for financing and delivery of key preven tive and promotive services, including maternal and child health care, immunization services, and general control of contagious diseases. In addition, developing country governments must lead also lead in providing public health education, health information, and health sector regulation. Moreover, the public sector must continue and increase its efforts to safe guard the welfare of underprivileged and low-income beneficiary populations while pursuing a privatization policy. In critical areas such as the control of human immunodeficiency virus and treatment of conditions related to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, broadly based co-operative efforts involving the public sector, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations are necessary to meet the health needs of developing member countries.