Proper problem analysis is needed based on risk and mitigation analysis before rolling out a program under decentralization. Problem analysis was undertaken to some degree during project preparations. Risks were outlined in the project framework (under Assumptions and Risks) but little detail was given in the main text of the report and recommendation of the President, or in the project design. Greater attention should have been placed on the political economy of decentralization, such as outlining key stakeholders, defining differential impacts of reforms, and identifying risks associated with possible future behavior of key stakeholders, along with capacity assessments across the broad geographic spread of the project. It would have been important to better assess the factors that help or hinder managerial and operational institutionalization of local health systems. The project did not do so. As a result, the standardized approach may not have worked in all districts. Decentralization is an evolving process and requires time to develop adequate capacity.
Decentralized Health Services Project