Where efficiency saves lives: A linear programme for the optimal allocation of health care resources in developing countries

Morbidity and mortality are directly influenced by the available health care budget. In addition, the optimal allocation of this scarce resource to the different strata of the health care system depends on the health care priorities. This paper presents a linear programming model in order to analyse the impact of changes of the health care budget and the goal system of the health care system on the optimal allocation to preventive and curative medicine. The model demonstrates that the current resource allocation in developing countries is inefficient. This calls for a new emphasis on preventive medicine and primary care in the political processes in developing countries. Copyright Kluwer Academic Publishers 2000