Exploring Accountability Systems and Mechanisms in the Healthcare sector in Jordan: A Qualitative Study

Domain: patient safety and quality improvement 2797
Author, Ibrahim, Aqel, presenting author: Ibrahim Aqel,
1 The Institute for Family Health, Amman, Jordan

The governance of the healthcare sector involves implementing various accountability tasks related to the organization's specific goals. Accountability refers to the relationship through which an agent's behaviour evaluated against the predetermined standards of a principal, who holds the power to sanction misdeeds.  Based on the available data, there is a need for more investigation into the currently available accountability mechanisms, tools, and systems in the healthcare sector in Jordan. This will help identify gaps and guide the development of an accountability framework for the healthcare sector in Jordan.

The primary purpose of this research is to explore and describe current performance accountability mechanisms, systems, frameworks, and tools available in the health sector in Jordan, identify gaps, and guide health policy leaders during the process of reforming accountability in the healthcare sector in Jordan. This qualitative research is significant in understanding the current accountability systems/frameworks available in the health sector in Jordan. Furthermore, the results of this research will guide health policy leaders during the process of assessing and reforming accountability in the healthcare sector in Jordan.

 

Qualitative research methods were employed to capture the rich experiences, perspectives, and narratives of various stakeholders

Two primary methods of data collection were used in this study:

a. In-depth Interviews: Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals, administrators, and policymakers.

b. Focus Group Discussions: Focus groups were conducted with health professionals about their perceptions and experiences related to accountability in healthcare. Notes were recorded from Focus group sessions and transcribed for analysis.

Analytical techniques included thematic analysis and triangulation

In conclusion, this qualitative research study aimed to explore and understand the concept of accountability in the health sector in Jordan. Through the analysis of interviews, observations, and relevant literature, several key findings emerged. the research revealed that accountability mechanisms in the Jordanian health sector face several challenges. Furthermore, the study identified the role of different stakeholders in promoting accountability in the health sector. While the government and regulatory bodies have a crucial role in setting policies and standards, healthcare providers and administrators play a significant part in ensuring accountability within their organizations. Additionally, patients and civil society organizations were identified as key actors in advocating for transparency and holding health institutions accountable for their actions.

This research study, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health under the USAID-funded Health Services Quality Accelerator Activity, would not have been possible without the support and cooperation of many individuals and institutions. We are deeply grateful to the Ministry of Health for their partnership and valuable contributions, which were crucial in exploring the current performance accountability mechanisms in Jordan's health sector.

Our sincere thanks also go to USAID for their funding and continuous support, which enabled this important work to be carried out.

Finally, we hope the findings will assist health policy leaders in their efforts to reform accountability and improve healthcare in Jordan.