Costing framework for International Health Regulations (2005)

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy
• International Health

Background:

• The revised International Health Regulations (IHR [2005]) mandate member states to build core capacities for public health emergencies.
• Many nations struggle with IHR compliance due to a lack of understanding regarding the costs involved.
• This knowledge gap hinders the mobilization of essential international assistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a strategic framework for estimating the costs of implementing the IHR (2005).
• To provide decision-makers with a tool for understanding the financial inputs required for IHR core capacities.
• To facilitate the planning and investment needed for national public health system strengthening.

Main Methods:

• Development of an IHR implementation strategy.
• Creation of a framework for preliminary cost estimation (fixed and operating costs).
• Focus on developing and sustaining IHR core capacities across integrated public health systems.

Main Results:

• A foundational tool for modeling the costs of strengthening public health systems from central to peripheral levels.
• Enables preliminary estimation of costs associated with IHR core capacities.
• Provides a basis for defining necessary actions and investments for IHR compliance.

Conclusions:

• Understanding IHR implementation costs is vital for compliance and global health security.
• The developed strategy serves as a critical framework for national health authorities.
• Effective cost modeling supports targeted investments in public health infrastructure.