A successful transport scenario for the health sector in developing countries

The role and operation of transport in the health sector in developing countries is important, costly but often taken for granted. This article suggests the need for a fresh look at the policy, planning and management of transport through the analysis of the essential components of a successful transport scenario for health services in developing countries i.e. transport and health planning; transport and organisational responsibility; the role of health sector donors; decision-making and procurement of transport and spares; transport and human resources; monitoring and control of transport and information; maintenance and repair; the budget. The article concludes with a checklist of key questions that may be used in assessing the contribution of transport to the health services.