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Developing a middle-range theory to explain how cash transfers work to tackle the social determinants of health: A realist case study

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  • Owusu-Addo, Ebenezer
  • Renzaho, Andre M.N.
  • Smith, Ben J.

Abstract

Cash transfers (CTs) are increasingly high on the agenda of most governments and development partners in low-and middle-income countries. Even though burgeoning evidence points to CTs’ impact on the social determinants of health (SDoH), there is little evidence about how and why CTs work to influence the SDoH. This paper reports on a realist evaluation aimed at developing a middle-range theory that explains how CTs influence the SDoH by exploring program mechanisms of change and associated contextual factors. Qualitative interviewing was employed including key informant interviews (N = 36), in-depth-interviews (N = 32) and focus groups with program beneficiaries (N = 12), and observations.

Suggested Citation

  • Owusu-Addo, Ebenezer & Renzaho, Andre M.N. & Smith, Ben J., 2020. "Developing a middle-range theory to explain how cash transfers work to tackle the social determinants of health: A realist case study," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 130(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:130:y:2020:i:c:s0305750x20300462
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2020.104920
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