Dili, July 16, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The World Bank (WB), together with the Ministry of Health (MoH), held a two-day discussion on health financing and universal health coverage in Timor-Leste, aiming to enhance investment and efficiency in the health sector. The discussion took place in the Ministry of Finance’s conference room from Tuesday to Wednesday this week.
The World Bank Director for Timor-Leste, David Freadman, stated that the current health conditions and related reports were jointly prepared with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance with the goal of providing a foundation for joint discussions to improve the overall system, investment strategies, and future spending efficiency.
“Regarding the Ministry of Health’s efficiency and the current condition of facilities, these reports were prepared jointly with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance to serve as a basis for joint discussion on how we can improve the overall system, prioritize investment, and enhance spending efficiency in the future,” said World Bank Director David Freadman at the Ministry of Finance’s conference room.
He further emphasized that to improve the system, all components must be addressed, as inefficient spending leads to poor results. Although resources may be prepared, a lack of adequate facilities hinders service delivery.
“I can personally say that in order to improve the system, we need to address all components. For example, we may allocate funds, but if spending is inefficient, the results will be weak. We may prepare human resources, but without facilities, it hinders service delivery. So, the whole system must be improved by focusing on each pillar,” added David Freadman.
Additionally, in 2021, universal health coverage reached 52%, compared to less than 30% in 2000. Although the government has made progress, it has yet to reach the desired level of universal access. The target for universal access is set at 80% or higher.
Vice Minister for Hospital Operationalization, Flávio Brandão, said that this activity is important for the health sector as it allows a thorough analysis of studies conducted jointly with the World Bank and the government on how investments are made in the health sector.
“Furthermore, it also analyzes the dynamics of international health-related policies to ensure more efficient planning. Over these two days, information was shared and discussions were held to ensure health investments in the General State Budget are managed effectively and with quality, responding to needs. However, it is important that investments are based on data,” said Vice Minister for Hospital Operationalization, Flávio Brandão.
He also noted that balance must be achieved between the General State Budget (OGE) and development partners, as in the past, partners invested around 30% in health development, which could rise to 40%, depending on internal factors.
Report: Domingas
Photo: Domingas