This paper analyses the possible implications of the General Agreement on Trade in Services on the three main components of human resources for health development (HRD), i.e., planning, production and utilization. The four modes of free trade in 12 service sectors are described. At least five of the 12 service sectors are related to health systems, i.e., business, distribution, education, finance, and health and social services. The free flow of health professionals and foreign investment in the private sector may affect the demand, supply and distribution of health personnel. Poor LDCs may experience increased brain-drain and the demand for personnel in urban areas may increase, causing additional problems of maldistribution. Free trade in health services may also aggravate the multi-tiered pattern of health services. Strong policies to strengthen basic health services, primary health care, civic movements, and to encourage capacity strengthening for the conduct of health policy and health system research and development are essential measures to cope with these possible negative implications on the health system. Careful study and monitoring of the evolving situation, along with prompt corrective measures as necessary, are important and can be successful only if local capacity is adequate to the tasks. International health organizations such as WHO, UNICEF and CIOMS should work together to develop immediate, medium and long-term strategies to help developing countries mitigate these possible negative implications.
225 words
Keywords : WTO, GATS, international trade, human resource for health, health workforce, health manpower development.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the various sectors of General Agreement on Trade in Services which may have implications on human resources for health. 2. Analyse the possible implications from the above agreements. 3. Develop appropriate strategies to alleviate the negative implications and enhance the positive ones
Keywords: Health Care Workers, Workforce
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.