Decentralized health systems in transition

2008 This report is based on the results of the 14th RHN annual conference on the theme of decentralized health systems in transition. This choice seemed logical in light of ever increasing attention that the issue of decentralization attracts in policy discussions in the European health systems fora. Ways to ensure accountability for performance, improve equity, strengthen solidarity, maintain responsiveness, and increase efficiency are some of the key questions that policy makers at the regional and national level are trying to address together. The conference provided a forum for the regions to discuss some of the outstanding issues related to health systems at the decentralized level, and for participants to share among themselves their experience and views on possible ways of dealing with opportunities and challenges.