This book aims to identify the policy and programme challenges for improving the health of populations in low- and middle-income countries. In this book we define policy as 'a purposive course of action followed by an actor or set of actors in dealing with a problem or matter of concern'. In looking at public policy, we are concerned with the formal institutions of government, since they provide the structure within which the public policy process takes place.

'Health policy embraces courses of action that affect the set of institutions, organizations, services, and funding arrangements of the health care system. It goes beyond health services, however, and includes actions or intended actions by public, private and voluntary organizations that have an impact on health'. Programme can be defined as the embodiment of the policy--that is, in translating health policy into practice through a series of targeted health and health-related programmes.

The intriguing discussions covered in this book are presented in the following topics: key issues of public health concern, global aid architecture and aid effectiveness in health, health systems strengthening, improvement in health, human resources for health, ensuring access to essential health services, leadership and governance in health.

The book will be invaluable for health professionals, health programmers, policymakers, donor agencies, and students in public health, medicine, political science and related fields.