Development of a mental health policy and system in Tanzania: an integrated approach to achieve equity.
OBJECTIVE
Although most donor and development agency attention is focused on communicable diseases in mainland Tanzania, the importance of noncommunicable diseases, including mental illness, is increasingly apparent.


METHODS
This report describes a ten-year collaborative project (1999-2009) to meet these challenges through a sustainable mental health policy introduced across Tanzania. The country used an integrated approach, combining situation appraisal, integrated mental health policy and planning, mechanisms for sustainable implementation with largely local resources integrated into local systems, and monitoring to fine-tune the implementation.


RESULTS
The project led to inclusion of mental health in relevant health policy instruments, treatment at the primary care level, stronger referral and intersectoral coordination, and a focus on rehabilitation and public education.


CONCLUSIONS
Although much remains to be done, Tanzania's commitment to mental health is now sustainedly embedded within its policies, national and local budgets, and training activities.
Mbatia
Joseph
J
Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania.
Jenkins
Rachel
R
D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D016021:Epidemiologic Studies; D005260:Female; D006291:Health Policy; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006306:Health Surveys; D054625:Healthcare Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D011050:Policy Making; D013636:Tanzania