Some forty-one heavily indebted poor countries (HIPCs) qualify for debt relief consideration under the revised initiative agreed upon in Cologne in June, 1999 (HIPC II). Under the revised program, countries will be granted debt relief in return for good macroeconomic management. In addition, they must develop Poverty Reduction Strategies (PRSs), showing that they will use the resources freed by debt relief to address poverty problems. It is well-accepted that increased investments in primary health care are an important component of human development efforts, and should be a fundamental part of any poverty reduction strategy. Child immunization programs are usually included in such primary care initiatives, and have been part of the social sector investments of the eight HIPCs who have so far developed debt relief programs. But they have not been given the priority and emphasis they warrant. Research into past experience shows that sustained, targeted efforts towards universal coverage are the most cost-effective method for improving health status of a population, and that its impact on child development has a host of social and economic benefits for families and communities in poor countries. The argument and evidence is presented to support an increased emphasis on child immunization programs as integral components of the poverty reduction strategies which are to be developed by the HIPCs in the coming year.
Learning Objectives: After hearing this paper, participants will be able to: (1) understand how debt relief has been linked to, and created opportunities for, poverty reduction in heavily indebted poor countries (HIPCs); (2) describe the evidence supporting the cost-effectiveness of child vaccines as an investment in both better health and development; and (3) articulate the arguments for increased funding for child vaccines in poverty reduction strategies
Keywords: Immunizations, Financing
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.