Health systems strengthening (HSS) is a complex process that encompasses a constellation of different interventions. Many HSS interventions occur “upstream” – far removed from the patients and communities they ultimately benefit. A new HFG documentary captures HSS work in action, illustrating how increased domestic financing for health coupled with stronger health governance is expanding access to health services in Nigeria.

The film spotlights  the development and passage of the first health insurance bill in Cross River State, Nigeria. Supported by the HFG program, the Cross River state government  successfully navigated the governance processes to secure the bill’s approval. As a result, an estimated 327,000 children and 50,000 pregnant women will be able to get much-needed health care during the first three years of this new program.

Launched at the Fourth Global Symposium on Health Systems Research in Vancouver, the film – Stronger Health Systems: Expanding Access to Care, Improving Health – was featured as part of the conference’s Global Health TV coverage.