Development of a new economic and financial governance model to improve migrants' access to healthcare services in Morocco

Abstract

The financial cost of healthcare services remains a significant barrier for migrants seeking adequate medical care. This finding was underscored in the initial phase of a global project aimed at studying and addressing healthcare access issues for migrants in Morocco. The primary objective of the project's second phase was to develop a new model of economic and financial governance for migrant health. To achieve this goal, we proceeded through two successive steps. The first involved a rapid literature review to identify innovative financing practices that have successfully promoted healthcare access for migrant populations in other countries. The second step focused on constructing a new economic and financial governance model, drawing on Contandriopoulos' conceptual framework for health governance. Our review examined articles that identified financial obstacles as major barriers to healthcare access for migrants while proposing innovative solutions. These included the establishment of a dedicated fund, the creation of a public financial support organization, the introduction of medical aid schemes, and the development of free healthcare facilities for migrants. Subsequently, we developed three financing models by integrating various feasible mechanisms for healthcare financing in Morocco. These models encompassed integrating migrants into the Moroccan health insurance system, establishing a solidarity fund for migrant health, and fostering public–private partnerships. One of these models was validated during a stakeholder workshop convened for this purpose. This validated model represents a significant strategic advancement deserving careful consideration by decision-makers to address financial barriers to healthcare access for migrants in Morocco.