Abstract
This paper analyses the impact of IMF policies, initially Structural Adjustment Policies and more recently Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers, upon healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa. Case studies are undertaken of healthcare outcomes in Tanzania, Uganda and Ghana. Regional statistics for infant mortality and life expectancy are also considered. However viewed, the Fund’s policies have been disastrous – diverting funds from much needed healthcare into foreign debt repayment and foreign exchange reserves, and imposing salary caps that encourage the flight of local doctors abroad. There are few better investments for any developing nation than the health of its own people. The Fund and its policies need to be reconceptualised.
Disciplines
Banking and Finance
Date of this Version
April 2008
Recommended Citation
Ross P. Buckley and Jonathon Baker, "IMF Policies and Health in Sub-Saharan Africa" (April 2008). University of New South Wales Faculty of Law Research Series 2008. Working Paper 14.
http://law.bepress.com/unswwps-flrps08/art14
Comments
This paper will appear in the forthcoming volume, 'Global Health Governance: Crisis, Institutions and Political Economy', Adrian Kay and Owain Williams (Eds), London: Palgrave Macmillan, 2008. This paper may also be referenced as [2008] UNSWLRS 14.