Public private partnerships as an alternative service delivery option : a multiple case study of the healthcare sector
Date
2009-03
Authors
Haarhoff, Kosie Jacobus
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
This study examines the key success factors in the Public Private Partnerships
(PPP) field in the Healthcare Sector in South Africa. It gives health departments
insight into the factors which should be considered when using PPP procurement
and when looking at possible PPP opportunities.
The development of PPP’s around the world has urged governments to look at
alternative service delivery methods because of increased pressures on government
budgets. Public Private Partnerships presents governments with a means of
generating private funds for health service delivery whilst government manages the
relationship via a negotiated PPP agreement to monitor the quality of services
rendered.
Different PPP models are applied all over the world depending on the specific needs
of countries. Different factors impact on the success of these partnerships and it is
essential that government share knowledge and best practices. The study showed
that in order for PPP’s to be successful the public institution must do its homework
thoroughly and that the legal framework should be conducive for private sector
involvement in service delivery.
The study showed that the government of a country plays a pivotal role in the PPP
process by giving the necessary political support to ensure the trust of foreign
investors. The legislative framework is a critical factor in the advancement of PPP
procurement and the allocation of risk as an important consideration when pursuing
this type of procurement.
The study examined three concluded PPP Health Sector agreements in South Africa
and looked at lessons learnt, mistakes which were made and what should be
avoided in the future. The three PPP’s in South Africa in this study were the first
though there are other health sector PPP agreements concluded. The other PPP’s
are still in the commencement stage and it is too early to make an assessment at this stage. However, the three case studies conducted give departments a clear
picture of the process, the lessons learnt and the impediments in the PPP process.
The uniqueness of the South African Health sector also prompted the Government to
look at a model which will be best suited to the local market. Best practices from
other countries provide useful information and lessons learnt from other countries
are also important in a developing PPP environment.
Description
Thesis (MPA (School of Public Management and Planning))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Medical partnerships -- South Africa, Medical care -- South Africa, Public-private sector cooperation -- South Africa, Dissertations -- Public management and planning, Theses -- Public management and planning