Navigating health systems: a scoping review of WHO Building Blocks and Control Knobs frameworks

Area of Science:

• Health Policy and Systems Research
• Global Health Management

Background:

• Health systems are fundamental to national well-being and achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Effective assessment frameworks are essential for evaluating and improving health system performance.
• Existing frameworks like WHO Building Blocks and Control Knobs offer different strengths for analysis and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the applicability and strengths of the WHO Building Blocks and Control Knobs frameworks.
• To explore the potential for integrating these frameworks for comprehensive health system assessment.
• To identify how framework application can be tailored for specific contexts to enhance global health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology was employed.
• Analysis of 23 research articles was conducted.
• The ECLISPSE framework was utilized for comparative analysis.

Main Results:

• The Building Blocks Framework demonstrates broad applicability in assessing overall health system performance.
• The Control Knobs Framework is particularly effective for targeted interventions, especially in primary care and family physician programs.
• A synergistic approach, combining both frameworks, provides a more comprehensive health system evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Integrating the Building Blocks and Control Knobs frameworks offers a holistic strategy for health system assessment.
• Tailoring framework application to specific contexts is crucial for nuanced understanding and improved global health.
• Challenges remain in differentiating framework applications for effective implementation and maximizing their complementary benefits.