Joint Learning Network for Universal Health Coverage

Over the past three years, the Joint Learning Network (JLN) for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has become a well-established practitioner-to-practitioner network of countries at the forefront of the global movement toward UHC. Now that the JLN has been active for a few years, many involved in JLN felt that now was an appropriate time to assess what has been achieved to date and develop a roadmap for the future.

Strategic review of the JLN

In December 2012, the Rockefeller Foundation contracted Pact, an independent NGO that specializes in community engagement and networks, to conduct an independent strategic review of the JLN’s value proposition, mechanisms for engaging members, and decision-making structures.

From March 18-21, the Joint Learning Network (JLN) Information Technology track convened for their fourth core working group meeting in Dubai. These meetings provide track members with the opportunity to pool their collective experience implementing information technology reforms in support of national health insurance schemes, develop practical tools and guides that can be shared to support their own country’s progress towards universal health coverage (UHC), and build relationships with other practitioners.

The team traveled to Abu Dhabi for a day-long visit to see the Shafafiya system in action. Members received a brief overview of Shafafiya from Director-General of the Health Authority Dr. Maha Baraket and Head of Statistics and Modeling Mr.

Well-functioning heath information systems are the unsung hero of successful health systems.

The exchange of data and information is fundamental —without it healthcare providers, insurers, government agencies, and other stakeholders are unable to communicate effectively—which can lead to poor customer care, a system that fails to respond to the needs of a nation, and inadequate financial management.

While most experts agree that investment in appropriate information technology (IT) is critical to reducing costs, improving quality and increasing enrolment. Harmonizing the language of different health organizations and health information systems within a scheme is an iterative process.

The Provider Payment Costing Collaborative Core Working Group (CWG) held its second meeting in Jakarta, Indonesia from February 25-27, 2013. The CWG -- with a cumulative total of approximately 320 years of experience in health -- is developing a costing manual for provider payment that can be integrated into country-led processes for provider payment reform in support of universal health coverage (UHC) and other health system goals. At this workshop, participants performed a systematic review of the manual's costing methodology section and developed content for a section on data collection and analysis. The manual builds on the experience and lessons of CWG members and will serve as a 'how to' for others who are embarking on costing studies for provider payment.

Photos and notes from the meeting will be posted soon.