Policy Environment for Services The potential contributions of a growing private health sector are compromised by overregulation. Benin’s colonial and communist heritage—a predominant public sector with top-down decisionmaking and strict oversight—influences the current policy environment. This has resulted in a highly regulated health sector that hinders efficient growth of private enterprise and poses significant hurdles for both entrepreneurs and potential international investors. This regulatory approach is, incidentally, fueling the growth of the unregulated informal sector, which has consequences for quality of care.
Figure 2. Health System in Benin Managing Body
Ministry of Health
District Health Offices
Health Zone Offices
Facility or Organization
National Level
• Benin National Teaching Hospital—Hubert K. Maga • Mother and Child Hospital in Lagune • National Referral Hospital of the National Tuberculosis Program • National Employers’ Council of Benin • National Committee of Gerontology • Military Hospital in Camp Guézo, Cotonou
Departmental Level
Local Level
• Departmental hospitals • Centers of information, planning, and advice • Leprosy treatment centers • Post-pregnancy health care facilities
• Zonal hospitals • Health clinics • Private facilities • HIV testing and treatment centers • Testing centers for leprosy and Buruli ulcers • HIV voluntary testing centers
Source: Health Systems 20/20, 2012
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SHOPS Project • Benin Private Health Sector Assessment