Turning points in political and health policy history: the case of Cambodia 1975-2014

Since 1975, Cambodia has transitioned through three distinct political periods of totalitarian, centralist, and neo liberal rule. In order to understand the challenges these political reforms present for health systems and policies, this case study charts events in health policy and political history in Cambodia between 1975 and 2014. Findings illustrate the interconnections of health and history, the balancing of tradition and modernity in health management and medical practice, and the shift in policy positions in response to political and economic reform. This historical view has the potential to enhance the capability of policy makers to not only understand the origins of current health policy positions, but also to anticipate and respond more flexibly to emerging health policy challenges.