Health System Improvement Project

The objectives of the Health System Improvement Project for Albania is to contribute to improving the efficiency of care in selected hospitals in Albania, improving the management of information in the health system, and increasing financial access to health services. The project is also directly aligned with the Government’s health sector reform strategy and will support the implementation of the Government’s reform agenda. To improve access and efficiency of health care services in Albania, the Project will support: a) reforming the hospital sector by creating a sound legal framework and management structure for efficient service provision, strengthening performance management and planning, overcoming operational constraints in service delivery, supporting rationalization of the hospital network, and strengthening the referral system; b) improving monitoring and management of service quality and efficiency through the establishment of a health management information system and of a medical equipment management and maintenance system; and c) reforming the health financing and provider payment systems, improving capacity of the HIF for strategic purchasing, strengthening systems for efficient purchasing/distribution of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, and assessing options to expand insurance coverage within the available fiscal space.<BR>