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1.6 HEALTH FINANCING AS A KEY LEVER

TO PROPEL PRIMARY HEALTHCARE
DEVELOPMENT IN HONG KONG

1.6.1 DEFINING HEALTH FINANCING

The WHO Framework for Action published in 2007 is a guide for policymakers to understand
and plan the foundation of a health system, which describes financing as one of
the six core “building blocks” of health systems (Figure 1.14) (WHO, 2007).
Working in concert with the other system building blocks, financing aims to deliver population
health improvements, responsiveness to growing and shifting health needs, and financial
protection and equity of payment (WHO, 2007). The WHO has defined health financing as
“a core function of health systems that can enable progress towards
universal health coverage by improving effective service coverage and
financial protection.” (WHO, 2005b, 2010c, 2019a) (Figure 1.15)

Figure 1.14

The WHO health system building blocks framework

Service delivery

Improved health
Health workforce
Access (Level and equity)
Coverage
Information Responsiveness

Medical products, Social and financial
vaccines & technologies risk protection
Quality
Safety
Financing Improved efficiency

Leadership / governance

Note: Adopted from Everybody’s Business: Strengthening Health Systems to Improve Health Outcomes: WHO’s
framework for action.
Source: WHO, 2007

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