Wenjie Mahdi, professor of global health and human resources at Rutgers University, says the U.N. is just creating a “fraudulent” program with no legitimacy. However, the study shows that if it were to be implemented nationally and work, it would generate more investment with potentially lower costs and improve the standard of care.

To be clear, though we may wish otherwise, the U.N. may not be the optimal way to create a quality health care system, as it is the world body responsible for setting universal health care standards. But, the study demonstrates the importance of using existing models to create the needed change.

The study also reveals that national health systems are in need of substantial reform, which includes re-implementing the Medicare program — which has long been a significant driver of spending — and giving priority to patient choice when it comes to treatment.

The study also makes some important policy prescriptions and explains why, with international health organizations becoming increasingly important players in health care delivery, the global health community must recognize that its role in delivering health care has not always been a sure thing. And some of the U.N.’s best ideas have been put in the bin years ago, in favor of the old ways of doing things with no clear benefit.

What do you think? Have you read the study? Comment your thoughts below. We welcome your ideas!

Photo credit: UNICEF UN

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