Power, Politics, and Public Health: Understanding the Role of Healthcare Expenditure in Shaping Health Outcomes in Pakistan for Policy Enhancement

Power dynamics and political structures play a significant role in determining resource allocation, policy decisions, and health outcomes in public health. The main purpose of this research is to analyze the impact of healthcare spending on health outcomes in Pakistan between 2002 and 2021. Government spending on education, existing health expenses, carbon emissions, illness prevalence (both infectious and non-infectious), and the availability of doctors are only a few of the issues investigated. The health outcomes are measured by the percentage of infants who die before their fifth birthday. The robust least squares regression technique is used to test the hypotheses. The results show that the under-5 death rate in Pakistan has increased due to a lack of government spending on education, current health expenses, and infectious illnesses. However, it has been demonstrated that increasing the number of doctors may help reduce healthdamaging effects, especially the death rate for children under five. Based on these results, several policy recommendations can be made. Firstly, the government should allocate more funds to healthcare in regions where access to healthcare facilities is inadequate. Secondly, there is a need to upgrade outdated health infrastructure by incorporating the latest advancements in healthcare technologies, with the aim of improving the overall healthcare system in the country. Lastly, promoting a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner environment is crucial for enhancing longevity. To achieve this, it is imperative to adopt renewable energy technologies to reduce pollution levels. This study serves as a reminder that public health is intricately intertwined with power dynamics and political contexts. By critically examining these relationships and embracing a health-in-all-policies approach, we can create transformative change that prioritizes the health and well-being of populations, ultimately leading to a more just and equitable society