Application of the analytical hierarchy process to optimisation of healthcare financing

Abstract

Nigeria is a large, well-populated and developing country in the sub-Sahara Africa. Given its low pace of development, economic and social challenges, and ineffective and inefficient public policies and programs, health sector development has become a very big challenge. The consequences of this are high levels of health issues and low life expectancy. Health reforms and policies have been lopsided against the majority, thus creating issues of affordability for a vast majority of the populace. In this study, we utilised the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) in modelling healthcare financing. The research shows that access (47.4%) and cost (30.3%) are critical factors in healthcare financing. Also, primary healthcare is considered of paramount importance, and needs to be better funded.