Health policy processes in Vietnam: a comparison of three maternal health case studies.
OBJECTIVE
To describe and analyse the policy processes related to maternal health in Vietnam.


METHODS
A multi-method, retrospective comparative study of three case studies of maternal health policy processes-skilled birth attendance, adolescent reproductive health and domestic violence. It drew on primary qualitative data and secondary data. The underpinning conceptual framework of the study with key elements of policy processes is described.


RESULTS
The study identified significant differences between the policy processes related to the different case studies. Various factors affect these processes. Critical amongst these are the nature of the policy, the involvement of different actors and the wider context both nationally and internationally. The changing national context is opening up increasing opportunities for civil society to interact with policy processes.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding the nature of policy processes is critical to strengthen them, particularly in a changing environment. There is potential for a review of government policy processes which were developed in the period prior to Doi Moi to reflect the changing composition of civil society.
Ha
Bui Thi Thu
BT
Hanoi School of Public Health, 138 Giang Vo, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Viet Nam. bth@hsph.edu.vn
Green
Andrew
A
Gerein
Nancy
N
Danielsen
Katrine
K
D017144:Focus Groups; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008427:Maternal Health Services; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D011050:Policy Making; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014744:Vietnam