The Multiplier Effect of Investments in Healthcare.
Central Asia is a region with significant potential. Approximately half of its population, which totals 80 million people, is under the age of 30. It serves as a bridge between the economic blocs of Europe and Asia. This year, GDP growth in these five countries is projected to be 4.1%, which is much higher than the global average of 2.6% and higher than any other part of the European region.
Achievements in Healthcare
Since the beginning of the 21st century, Central Asia has made significant improvements in healthcare. The average life expectancy for men has increased by 5.2 years, and for women by 4 years: it is now 70.3 and 76.2 years, respectively. Over the past two decades, the maternal mortality rate has halved: from 49 per 100,000 in 2000 to 24 in 2017.
WHO
Developing the Healthcare System
Maintaining this upward trajectory in healthcare development is not only a moral obligation but also a smart political and economic opportunity. Investments in healthcare have a positive impact on the economy: the healthcare sector is among the top ten sectors contributing to economic development and is also an important source of jobs. According to an Italian study, every euro invested in healthcare jobs brings 1.8 euros to other sectors of the economy. This is nearly double the return.
Investments and Social Capital
Investing in healthcare improves the well-being of people: according to WHO analysis, investments in social protection, labor market policies, and housing amounting to just 0.1% of GDP can improve the lives of 300,000 people over four years with a population of 80 million (the population of Central Asia). Additionally, this helps ensure equality in healthcare issues.
Focusing on Child Health
Prioritizing early childhood health initiatives enhances education levels and expands employment opportunities, providing an eightfold economic return.
New Technologies and Green Innovations
Active and sustainable investments in healthcare and improved well-being will help the young population of Central Asia fully realize their potential and contribute to creating a better future for the entire region. Focusing on specific healthcare challenges and opportunities now will bear fruit in the coming years.
Gov
Examples
We can provide convincing examples of the positive impact of investments in healthcare that can serve as models for emulation. For instance, Kazakhstan is a global pioneer in primary healthcare and remains at the forefront of innovations in telemedicine, enabling the provision of medical services to people regardless of their location. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, when digital medical services received legislative and financial support, pilot projects in telemedicine, teleradiology, and telepathology are currently being implemented in various regions. Additionally, WHO recently supported the country in developing its first telemedicine strategy for 2024-2028.
Cooperation in Healthcare
Two years ago, the health ministers of Central Asian countries agreed to cooperate in 11 areas of healthcare. As a mechanism to implement this agreement, the first of its kind, a Roadmap to support health and well-being in Central Asia was developed. Combining political leadership, technical prioritization, and increased investment in healthcare, the Roadmap aims to enhance the benefits of each of the five Central Asian countries for the common good.
Xinhua
WHO's Role
WHO contributes to its implementation by partnering in activities, drawing international attention to its goals, and demonstrating progress as an example for other regions. Currently, more active participation is needed to implement the Roadmap. Today, the region has a real opportunity to leap forward through investments in new technologies and "green" innovations, significantly improving the lives and well-being of the population. Citizens, authorities, and businesses face similar challenges and strive to find solutions. This is a unique time of convergence, recognizing the need for investments not only in GDP growth but also in human and social capital, as well as in the determined and sustainable development of Central Asian countries.
International Forum
The WHO Regional Office for Europe and the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic are organizing an International Forum on Investments in Healthcare in Central Asia on June 26-27, which will bring together international, regional, and national political and investment partners. The Forum will highlight the importance of investments in healthcare, showcase measures to promote the Roadmap, and review investment priorities. One of the key outcomes will be the establishment of an Investment Group in Healthcare for Central Asian countries, which will focus on multilateral investments, leveraging the strengths and strategic advantages of Central Asia to strengthen subregional stability and prosperity.
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The Benefits of Healthcare Investments
Increasingly, evidence shows that healthcare is truly the best area for investments to ensure economic development, achieve social cohesion, restore the environment, and strengthen human capital in Central Asia.
Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, Director of the WHO Regional Office for Europe
