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I am delighted to announce the publication of my article:
A Multi Country Evidence Synthesis on Somalis’ Cross Border Healthcare: An Epidemiological Analysis of Drivers, Costs, and Systemic Implications
This article presents a PRISMA-informed rapid evidence synthesis that examines the increasing trend of Somali patients seeking healthcare outside their country, particularly in India, Turkey, Ethiopia, and Egypt. It delves into the clinical, economic, and health-system implications of this trend.
The study reveals that cross-border healthcare seeking among Somalis is not merely a matter of preference but often a reflection of persistent gaps in specialized care, diagnostics, continuity of treatment, financial protection, and health-system capacity within Somalia.
Furthermore, it highlights the significant burden placed on patients, families, and the wider health system through catastrophic out-of-pocket spending, reliance on remittances, and substantial capital outflows.
Key findings of the article include:
– Major clinical drivers of outbound care, such as cancer treatment, cardiovascular services, renal care, transplantation, fertility treatment, and complex surgeries.
– A substantial rise in Somali medical travel following the COVID-19 pandemic.
– The absence of a structured national system for outbound referrals, patient tracking, and post-treatment continuity.
– The urgent need for stronger domestic investment in high-burden tertiary services and improved governance of cross-border care pathways.
The article also proposes practical recommendations, including the establishment of a National Cross-Border Care and Referral Program, enhanced regulation and coordination, robust financial protection mechanisms, and strategic investment in services that currently compel Somali patients to seek treatment abroad.
This work aims to contribute to ongoing discussions among health professionals, policymakers, researchers, and development partners on how Somalia can enhance its health system, safeguard patients from avoidable financial hardship, and progress toward more equitable and sustainable access to quality care.
I hope this publication will foster informed dialogue, policy reflection, and evidence-based action on one of the most pressing yet underexamined aspects of healthcare access for Somali communities.