The value of health: a cornerstone for economic and social resilience in Europe

Health systems everywhere are under strain. Ageing populations and the rising burden of chronic diseases are increasing demand. New fiscal and political pressures are being placed on governments and health-systems.

Yet health spending is a good investment. Strong, resilient health systems are not only critical to individual and family well-being but also underpin economic productivity and societal stability. Studies show that every $1 invested in health can generate between $2 and $4 in economic returns.

Yet making the case for investment remains a challenge. Competing political priorities, constrained budgets and short electoral cycles pull attention away. How can policymakers and health system leaders respond? What models and metrics can support a more strategic view of health investment?

Europe has long been a benchmark for quality public-health systems. But workforce shortages, ageing populations and the strain of noncommunicable diseases now demand urgent reform. With constrained budgets struggling to meet increasing costs and rising patient expectations, the case for embedding health more deeply into economic planning has never been stronger.