Systematic Review of Global Best Practices in Multinational Public Health Program Implementation and Impact Assessment

Effective implementation and impact assessment of multinational public health programs are critical to achieving global health goals, particularly in an era marked by cross-border health threats and disparities. This systematic review explores global best practices in the design, delivery, and evaluation of public health programs that span multiple countries. Drawing on peer-reviewed literature and institutional reports published between 2005 and 2024, this review synthesizes findings from 56 eligible studies identified through databases including PubMed, Scopus, and WHO Global Index Medicus. The review follows PRISMA guidelines and emphasizes interventions targeting infectious diseases, maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, and health system strengthening. Key practices identified include participatory planning involving local stakeholders, the use of adaptive program models, and strategic alignment with regional health priorities and international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Programs that successfully achieved scale and sustainability incorporated integrated data systems for real-time monitoring, culturally sensitive health promotion strategies, and capacity-building initiatives for local health workers. Collaborative governance structures—particularly those fostering interagency coordination and public-private partnerships—emerged as critical enablers of cross-border program coherence. Impact assessment practices commonly featured mixed-methods evaluations, with quantitative metrics such as coverage rates, morbidity reduction, and cost-effectiveness complemented by qualitative assessments of community engagement, program acceptability, and health equity. However, gaps persist in harmonizing evaluation standards and ensuring long-term funding commitments, particularly in low-income countries. This review highlights the importance of context-specific adaptation, flexible program architecture, and transparent accountability mechanisms. The findings offer a roadmap for policymakers, development agencies, and implementing organizations seeking to design effective multinational health interventions with measurable and lasting impact. By identifying transferable strategies and evidence-based tools, this review contributes to the global discourse on improving health outcomes through coordinated, culturally attuned, and data-driven public health programming.