Diversifying Health Sector Finance in Botswana: The Impact of an Emergent Private Sector

Abstract

Equality of access to health care is one of the most deep-rooted beliefs and one which is found in most societies, developed and developing. Debates concerning health policy reform tend therefore to be conducted within this framework. Even among the most ardent advocates of ‘the market’ such beliefs find resonance. For example, Margaret Thatcher, speaking in 1983, argued that ‘the principle that adequate health care should be provided for all, regardless of their ability to pay, must be the foundation of all arrangements for financing health care’.

The article was written during a research visit to Botswana during 1994 and thanks are due to members of the Botswana Civil Service, the staff of the medical aid societies and others who provided time and information. The views expressed in the article are however solely the responsibility of the author.