Sustainable financing of immunization programs: A narrative review of the literature

Abstract

Countries have varied approaches to incorporating immunization into national health budgets, with little sharing of know-how and best practices. The diversion of resources from routine immunization due to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the need to increase the sustainability and resilience of existing vaccination infrastructure. Strategies for sustainable financing of immunization programs were reviewed and assessed on how they fit within the Immunization Agenda 2030 framework proposed by the WHO. We conducted a narrative literature review and analyzed existing knowledge using a thematic framework. The eligibility criteria for review articles were that they were peer reviewed, including grey literature, in English, and focusing on sustainable financing strategies for immunization programs unrelated to COVID-19 at an international or regional level. The review identified 24 articles that met inclusion criteria. The areas identified were ensuring sufficient, predictable resources, securing effective public financial management, enhancing collaborative partnerships and facilitating sustainable transition from external donor support. Recommendations include enhancing public-private partnerships (PPPs), ensuring alternative funding models, establishing credible regulatory bodies, and fostering technology transfer. To achieve sustainable financing, a multi-faceted approach is needed: increasing government funding, diversifying funding sources, investing in vaccine development infrastructure, establishing regulatory bodies, and fostering PPPs.