Analysis of the Burkinabe national health programme for the elderly (BNPEH) 2008-2012

Introduction: As a result of ageing of the population, most countries of sub-Saharan Africa, either spontaneously and/or in response to international incentives, are starting to develop sectorial or multisectorial action plans in favour of the elderly Are these plans relevant and consistent and do they improve the health of the elderly? This study was performed to assess the relevance, consistency and implementation of the National Health Programme for the Elderly (PNSPA) 2008-2012 in Burkina Faso. Methods: This qualitative analysis was conducted in Ouagadougou in November-December 2011 in 47 subjects including 27 elderly subjects and 20 stakeholders responsible for the design and/or implementation of the PNSPA. These respondents were selected rationally and were individually interviewed. Content analysis was therefore performed. Results: The PNSPA is relevant in the Burkinabe context. It takes into account the health needs of elderly people in Burkina Faso as well as the availability of resources in health centres. It presents several consistency problems. It has rarely been implemented due to lack of political support and inadequate financial resources. Discussion: The Burkina Faso PNSPA has encountered more difficulties than similar plans in Senegal and Mali, which have also encountered low implementation rates. This situation confirms that the elderly in sub-Saharan Africa constitute a top priority vulnerable population but which is neglected by all actors to varying degrees.