The Interactive Effect of Control of Corruption and Government Health Expenditure on Health Outcomes

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of corruption control and government health expenditure on health outcomes in West Africa, examining both direct effects and interactive influences. Utilizing data from 11 countries and employing the random effects technique, the study assesses life expectancy, infant mortality, and under-5 mortality as health indicators. The findings reveal that corruption control enhances life expectancy and reduces infant and under-5 mortality. Government health expenditure shows mixed effects, negatively affecting life expectancy and positively influencing infant and under-5 mortality. The interactive impact of corruption control and health expenditure on health outcomes is insignificant. The study recommends that policymakers in West Africa prioritize comprehensive anti-corruption measures to enhance life expectancy and mitigate infant and under-5 mortality. Thus, strengthening transparency and governance frameworks is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.