Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Tanzania Using Panel Data for Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

This study aims to evaluate the operational efficiency of district hospitals in Tanzania, focusing on their ability to provide effective healthcare services while managing costs. Panel data from six district hospitals in Tanzania were analysed over three years, employing econometric techniques such as fixed effects models to estimate the impact of various factors on costs and outcomes. The analysis revealed an average cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) of $100 per patient consultation, with significant variations among districts due to differences in infrastructure and staffing levels. The findings suggest that district hospitals can be optimised for better service delivery by focusing on resource reallocation and capacity building, particularly in areas lacking adequate facilities. District health authorities are recommended to prioritise investments in essential medical supplies and staff training to improve the cost-effectiveness of services offered. Panel data analysis, Cost-effectiveness, District hospitals, Tanzania, Healthcare efficiency Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.