The regulation and rapid expansion of health profession schools in Somalia have been significant in addressing the country’s complex socio-political landscape, especially in terms of improving health services. The article examines the evolution of health professions education in Somalia, identifying key challenges and opportunities, and offers policy recommendations to enhance the quality, accessibility, and equity of health services.
Health Professions Education and Its Crucial Role
Health professions education, which includes training for medicine, nursing, midwifery, medical laboratory sciences, and public health, is vital for achieving universal health coverage and meeting Sustainable Development Goals. However, Somalia’s efforts are hindered by a fragmented healthcare system and a severe shortage of skilled health professionals. The situation has been exacerbated by decades of civil war and political instability, creating a challenging environment for improvements in health education and services.
Study Methodology
To analyze the current state of health professions education, the study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Data collection included semi-structured interviews with 44 key informants, five focus group discussions with 25 young professionals, and an online survey completed by 353 students enrolled in professional health courses. The HRH maturity model framework guided the data analysis, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape.
Findings on School Growth and Workforce Assessment
Proliferation of Health Profession Schools
The study identified a total of 112 health profession schools across Somalia, with a notable concentration in urban areas, particularly in Benadir. The last decade has seen a significant surge in the number of these schools. However, this growth has created urban-rural disparities in educational opportunities and healthcare access, with rural areas being notably underserved.
Health Workforce Assessment
The assessment of Somalia’s health workforce reveals a critical shortage of skills, with health workforce density falling significantly below the World Health Organization’s recommended thresholds. This shortage is more pronounced in rural areas, highlighting a severe urban-rural disparity. Additionally, young physicians face significant employment difficulties post-graduation, often relying on connections to secure jobs. The private sector offers limited opportunities, with many roles being unpaid voluntary positions.
Regulatory Framework Gaps
The absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework has led to inconsistent quality control in the proliferation of health profession schools. The establishment of the National Health Professionals’ Council (NHPC) Act in 2020 aims to address these gaps by setting standards for education and practice. However, there is a notable lack of mandatory licensing exams and Continuing Professional Development requirements, which contributes to varying competencies among graduates.
Insights from Focus Groups and Surveys
Student Perspectives
Most students expressed satisfaction with the quality of their training but had an overly optimistic view of employment opportunities compared to the reality experienced by practicing physicians. Interestingly, many students indicated a willingness to work in rural areas if the right conditions were met.
Practicing Physicians
Practicing professionals voiced dissatisfaction with job opportunities, often leading to changes in career paths or relying on personal networks for employment. This dissatisfaction underscores the challenges within the health professions sector in Somalia and the need for systemic improvements.
Addressing Challenges and Offering Recommendations
To address the identified challenges, several recommendations have been put forth. The NHPC should prioritize accrediting health profession schools to ensure they meet international and national standards. Investment in the capacity building of HRH teams at federal and state levels is essential for effective regulatory oversight. Strategies to address the uneven distribution of health workers, such as incentives for professionals to work in underserved areas, are necessary. Implementing mandatory Continuing Professional Development programs can ensure the ongoing enhancement of skills and knowledge among health professionals. Collaborative efforts between the Ministries of Health, Education, and professional associations are crucial to harmonize training standards and align educational programs with healthcare needs. Public awareness campaigns can educate the populace about seeking care from licensed professionals and address the issue of unlicensed practitioners.
Conclusion
The regulation and rapid growth of health profession schools in Somalia have played a crucial role in navigating the nation’s intricate socio-political environment, especially when it comes to enhancing health services. This article delves into the evolution of health professions education in Somalia, shedding light on the major challenges and opportunities that have emerged. It discusses how these educational institutions have adapted to the country’s unique needs and circumstances, helping to bolster the quality and accessibility of healthcare. Additionally, the article offers insightful policy recommendations aimed at improving the overall equity of health services in Somalia. These recommendations focus on ensuring that education and training programs are aligned with the nation’s healthcare requirements and promoting a more effective and equitable distribution of health professionals across various regions. By addressing these key areas, Somalia can continue to make progress in building a more robust and responsive healthcare system for its citizens.
