health care systems

The outbreak of the H1N1 virus (otherwise known as "swine flu") has taught the world an important lesson: Strong public health surveillance systems are critical to deal with such situations.

World Bank expert Keith Hansen has said that such surveillance measures would not only help health care systems prepare for emergencies and pandemics, but would also help them deal with regular challenges. For example, following the H1N1 scare, health projects in Brazil and Argentina were set up to get funds quickly to communities with urgent medical needs, as well as to increase preparedness for pandemics. 

“The goal is not to just chase the disease du jour, but to really be prepared for what else may be coming down the pike, and strengthening countries overall in their readiness,” says Hansen.

Got a question about how to strengthen health care systems in devleoping countries? Hansen will be online today, Tuesday, October 6 at 10:30 a.m. EDT to answer questions on this topic. Submit your questions now.