A systematic review on the healthcare system in Jordan: Strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement

Introduction: This systematic review examines the strengths and weaknesses of Jordan's healthcare system, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers. The review identifies several areas where Jordan falls short and highlights its notable achievements. The strengths of the healthcare system lie in its high doctor-to-patient ratio and the quality of specialty care services. However, the system faces challenges in terms of primary healthcare, healthcare access disparities between urban and rural areas, and the financial burden on patients. Strategies to address these issues include strengthening primary healthcare, leveraging telemedicine for improved access, and implementing measures to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The review also emphasizes the need to address the healthcare needs of refugees in Jordan and the potential applicability of Jordan's experiences to similar middle-income countries. Overall, a multi-faceted approach is necessary to address the identified shortcomings and build on the existing strengths of Jordan's healthcare system Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted using predefined keywords related to Jordan's healthcare system, healthcare delivery, strengths, and weaknesses. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies published between 2000 and 2023, written in English, and focusing on Jordan's healthcare system. Exclusion criteria included studies outside the scope of healthcare systems and those not specific to Jordan. Results: The review identified several key strengths of Jordan's healthcare system, including a high doctor-to-patient ratio, specialized care services, and well-established infrastructure. However, the system faces challenges in primary healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas, resulting in disparities in access to care. Additionally, financial barriers, such as high out-of-pocket expenses, pose significant challenges to patients seeking healthcare services. The influx of refugees has further strained the healthcare system, necessitating culturally sensitive care and increased mental health services. Conclusion: To address the identified shortcomings, strategies such as strengthening primary healthcare services, enhancing access to healthcare in rural areas, and implementing measures to reduce financial burden on patients need to be prioritized. The experiences and lessons learned from Jordan's healthcare system can also inform healthcare improvements in similar middle-income countries. Continued support from the international community is crucial to assist Jordan in managing the additional pressures and ensuring the well-being of its population.