UN SDG 3 and Context-specific effects of stakeholder engagement on health care service delivery and policy implementation: A local government health sector case study in Pakistan’s Complex Governing Structure

In this study effects of context-specific stakeholder involvement in implementing the health care related policies as well as providing health care services in the Gujrat, Pakistan local government's health sector is empirically explored. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative dataset from government bureaucrats, healthcare providers and civic representatives. The study found enhanced operational efficiency, better health outcomes are outcomes of successful stakeholder engagement achieved through collaborative partnerships and participatory methods. Conversely, these improvements face major complications due to resistance from some stakeholders who are motivated by entrenched malpractices and political agendas. This study highlights importance of inclusive and transparent governance system by classifying strategies for incorporating stakeholder interest/s, concerns into policy-making. Current paper advances study of stakeholder theory by highlighting significance of addressing power dynamics and consequences of stakeholder involvement in health sector.