Good News About Christian Hospitals in Africa
Summary
A new study published finds that postoperative mortality at faith-based hospitals in East, Central, and Southern Africa is significantly lower than at other facilities: about 57% lower than at public hospitals and 47% lower than at private hospitals. The article explains that many of these hospitals operate in low-resource environments where access to safe surgical care is limited, yet they consistently deliver stronger outcomes. Researchers suggest that this success may stem from the hospitals’ mission-driven structures, ethical cultures, and deep community trust, though the exact causes remain uncertain. The study challenges assumptions about faith-based institutions being less capable in modern healthcare systems.
Relevance
This study offers a counterpoint to narratives of religious restriction of faith-based hospitals limiting effectiveness in care, by showing how their ethical and community-centred values may bolster patient care.