Health Systems Research

Health Systems Research has been a major theme at CIF ever since its establishment. We undertake rigorous, high quality research to inform policy-making in low- and middle-income countries.  By developing evidence-based policy for national, sub-national and regional governments we help increase the efficiency and sustainability of national health systems.

By applying rigorous research principles and analytical techniques we can elaborate different studies according to specific needs.  Adapted strategies are then used to share and disseminate research results to a wide audience, which includes decision-makers, media, health care providers and beneficiaries.

At CIF the range of research interests and skills of our team has broadened over the last two decades, widening the scope of our expertise and the services we deliver. The work we do with Health Systems Research targets the most relevant issues for low- and middle-income countries. Donor aid sustainability is one of our main areas of research, focusing on identifying factors that contribute to or hinder transitioning from donor support. Strengthening financial resources and reducing the financial risks that drive many countries into poverty require adapted and innovative approaches in different contexts. In the field of health system financing, CIF’swork focus on health expenditures, community health insurance schemes and national health accounts. Maternal and child health initiatives—another main branch of our work—requires the identification and elimination of health system bottlenecks.  This strengthens support for maternal and neonatal health. Immunization work includes financial studies of immunization costs and expenditures, as well as gathering data on the effectiveness of new vaccines then advocating for their introduction in national systems.

Key to any HIV/AIDS national response is continuous monitoring of infection prevalence and behavioral factors among the most at-risk groups. We have generated clear evidence for national programming.  Other important areas include Health information systems, pharmaceutical systems and mental health.