WHO EMRO Volume 32, Issue 1 | Latest Health Reports

Washington, D.C., February 1, 2026 — From Oman to Azerbaijan, health systems worldwide are grappling with complex challenges—and increasingly, looking to innovative financial strategies for solutions. A new collection of research and commentary highlights the potential of Islamic finance, the importance of emergency preparedness, and the ongoing struggles with healthcare privatization and data modernization.

Islamic Finance: A New Prescription for Health?

A growing body of evidence suggests Islamic finance models could strengthen healthcare infrastructure and access globally.

• A recent editorial explores Islamic finance as a strategic tool for bolstering health systems.
• Simulation exercises are proving vital for building resilient health systems and improving emergency response capabilities.
• Saudi Arabia’s experience with healthcare privatization presents both opportunities and significant challenges.
• Oman’s three decades of health system decentralization offer valuable lessons for other nations.
• Lebanon is navigating the complex transition from ICD-10 to ICD-11 health data classification.

Q: How can financial systems impact public health? A: Innovative financial models, like those rooted in Islamic finance principles, can unlock new funding streams and improve the sustainability of healthcare initiatives, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Building Resilience Through Preparation

The need for robust emergency preparedness is underscored by a commentary on simulation exercises. Landry Ndriko Mayigane, Elliot Brennan, Allan Bell, Georgia Galazoula, Mary Stephen, and Stella Chungong argue that these exercises are crucial for strengthening health systems’ ability to respond effectively to crises. The authors emphasize the importance of proactive planning and training to mitigate the impact of emergencies.

Privatization in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed Bag

Healthcare privatization in Saudi Arabia is a complex issue, according to research by Ibrahim A Alomar, Adil M Monshi, and Haytham A Sheerah. Their analysis reveals both potential benefits and significant drawbacks, highlighting the need for careful regulation and oversight to ensure equitable access to care. The study points to challenges in maintaining quality and affordability as key concerns.

Decentralization in Oman: A 30-Year Review

Nahida Raouf Allawati, Nazar Mohamed, and Waleed Al Nadabi evaluated three decades of health system decentralization in Oman. Their research provides a long-term perspective on the impact of decentralization on health outcomes and service delivery. The findings offer insights into the successes and challenges of this approach, potentially informing similar reforms in other countries.

The transition to ICD-11 in Lebanon is a significant undertaking, requiring substantial investment in infrastructure and training to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.

Data Modernization in Lebanon

Lebanon is currently transitioning its health data systems from the International Classification of Diseases 10 (ICD-10) to ICD-11, a process detailed by Hilda Harb, Solara Sinno, Heba Hourani, and Alissar Rady. This shift is essential for improving data quality and comparability, but it also presents logistical and technical challenges. The researchers emphasize the need for a well-planned and coordinated implementation strategy.

Pakistan’s Immunization Outsourcing Experiment

A study by Shiraz Shaikh and Kashif Shafique investigates whether outsourcing improves immunization coverage among children aged 12–24 months in Pakistan. The research examines the effectiveness of this approach in reaching underserved populations and increasing vaccination rates. The findings could have implications for other countries considering similar strategies.

Death Certification Quality in Iran

Hossein Kazemeini, Ardeshir Khosravi, Amin Atay, Elham Rashidian, Batoul Rabbani, and Kazemi Elaheh analyzed the quality of death certification in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Their research identifies areas for improvement in the accuracy and completeness of death certificates, which are crucial for public health surveillance and policy-making.

Measles Outbreaks in Azerbaijan

A short research communication from Halima Safarli, Mestan Emek, Nigar Mutalibova, Afet Akbarova, Aygun Ismayilova, Aljafar Jafarov, Rashad Chobanli, and Belgin Unal details recent measles outbreaks in Azerbaijan. The report highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent the resurgence of this preventable disease.

Syrian Healthcare Provider Awareness

A letter to the editor questions whether Syrian healthcare providers are fully aware of the role of family physicians. The inquiry raises important considerations about the need for ongoing professional development and training to ensure a well-equipped and effective healthcare workforce.

These diverse studies underscore the multifaceted nature of global health challenges and the importance of continued research and innovation. What are your thoughts on these issues? Share your perspective in the comments below.