# An equity-lens analysis of policies on child health in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

## TL;DR

This study examines how well child health policies in the DRC address health equity and finds significant gaps in incorporating key equity concepts.

## Contribution

The study introduces a systematic equity-lens analysis of child health policies in the DRC using the EquiFrame framework.

## Key findings

- Only the National Strategic Plan to Combat Malaria achieved a high equity rating.
- 44% of equity concepts were consistently included across all reviewed documents.
- Critical equity concepts like Non-discrimination and Cultural Responsiveness were completely omitted.

## Abstract

Despite policy commitments to equitable healthcare, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to experience significant disparities in child health outcomes. While national health policies formally express support for equity in access to health services, there is limited evidence on the extent to which they incorporate the core concepts (CCs) of equity. This study assessed the extent to which equity is embedded in child health policies.

The EquiFrame framework was used to analyse five child health policy documents selected based on their recency, public availability, and strategic relevance. In this study, 16 equity-related CCs were employed to evaluate both the extent of their coverage and the quality of the commitment demonstrated across the selected policy documents. Each document was analysed and ranked as low, moderate, or high in addressing equity-related CCs.

The National Strategic Plan to Combat Malaria is the only policy document that achieved a high equity rating. The remaining documents were ranked as moderate. Overall, 44% of equity concepts were consistently included across all reviewed documents. While Access, Prevention, Quality, Capacity Building, Integration, and Participation were the most frequently addressed equity-related CCs, critical concepts such as Non-discrimination, Cultural Responsiveness, and Individualized Services were completely omitted. In most cases, the policy frameworks lacked the operational detail, clearly defined measurable actions and robust monitoring mechanisms required to achieve a meaningful impact.

This study revealed significant gaps in addressing equity in child health policies in the DRC. Future policies should systematically incorporate all equity-related CCs, accompanied by clear, measurable actions and robust monitoring frameworks. Strengthening these components is essential to advance equitable access to child health services and ensure that all children, regardless of background or circumstance, can achieve their full health potential.