http://www3.who.int/whosis/discussion_papers/pdf/paper29.pdf

Perhaps the most important conclusion of this work is that it is possible to measure and compare the efficiency of health systems across countries and over time. This is particularly important for countries introducing health system reforms, and we hope that this study encourages all countries to routinely measure the inputs and outputs of their health systems. We intend to extend this analysis to regions within countries in the near future. An important benefit from the debate that is likely to accompany this exercise will be development of improved data sources and estimation methods. The overall aim is, of course, to stimulate action that will improve the performance of health systems and contribute to improving the welfare of people. (Au)