News

New report from WHO on health spending calls on governments not to repeat past mistakes when rebuilding from COVID-19 22-04-2021
A new report from the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Financing has highlighted the need for governments to maintain a higher level of public spending on health for the wider benefit of society despite expected budgetary pressures following the pandemic.
Uzbekistan strengthens its health system in the midst of COVID-19 crisis 07-04-2021
Even as it battles with COVID-19, Uzbekistan is maintaining strong momentum to reform its health system and provide quality, affordable health services to the entire population. Dilshod Soliev, a 40 year-old patient, who requires hemodialysis, is just one person who has benefitted from these reforms.
World Health Day: Putting equity at the heart of COVID-19 recovery 06-04-2021
COVID-19 has affected us all, but some have fared worse than others simply because of the jobs they do and the insecurity of their living conditions and livelihoods.
WHO supports clinical guidelines development process in Ukraine 09-03-2021
As Ukraine transforms its health system to improve access to high quality health services and increase financial protection for its population, the standardization of care and adoption of evidence-informed practices, including the development of clinical guidelines and protocols, are essential elements on the health system reform path. To support Ukraine in establishing a coherent national guideline development process, WHO has conducted a situational assessment of knowledge, current usage and potential barriers to the uptake of evidence-based medicine among Ukrainian health professionals. The assessment results as well as the clinical guidelines development procedure and methodology were discussed during 3 webinars for health workers and the expert community in Ukraine in February 2021.
Reforms move Cyprus closer to universal health coverage 08-03-2021
New WHO analysis shows how access to health care and financial protection deteriorated in Cyprus following health budget cuts and coverage restrictions from 2012 to 2015. Policy responses to the financial and economic crisis exacerbated existing gaps in health coverage, but reforms introduced in 2019 are closing these gaps and addressing other long-standing health system problems. Informed by evidence, the reforms are expected to reduce unmet need and financial hardship. They represent a major step towards universal health coverage.
Better than screening: with WHO’s help Ukraine chose a cost-efficient policy to prevent breast cancer 08-03-2021
International Women’s Day (IWD), 8 March is an opportunity to highlight a health issue that affects up to 1 out of 10 women in many countries of the European Region - an inspiring story of Ukraine’s search for the best tool to fight breast cancer. The country’s authorities used WHO/Europe’s expertise and advice to change their initial plans for nationwide mammography screening and started developing a more promising early diagnosis programme. The move will save Ukraine thousands of lives and millions of euros in loans.
Spain moves towards a more resilient health coverage policy during COVID-19 25-02-2021
The Government of Spain is introducing new exemptions from co-payments (user charges) for outpatient prescriptions – a reform expected to benefit around 6 million people. From 1 January this year, low-income pensioners, moderately and severely disabled children, and households receiving child benefits no longer have to pay out of pocket for prescribed medicines.
WHO/Europe looks ahead to a busy 2021 08-02-2021
Following an unprecedented year for WHO in 2020, WHO/Europe looks ahead to 2021 with a focus on the continuing COVID-19 pandemic alongside the implementation of the European Programme of Work.
Universal health coverage high on the political agenda during the Regional Director’s visit to Georgia 18-01-2021
During a country visit to Georgia on 18–23 December 2020, Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, discussed priority areas for health with high-level representatives. The visit was also an opportunity to speak with health care workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can people afford to pay for health care? New report considers status of universal health coverage in the Republic of Moldova 28-12-2020
Health system reforms in the Republic of Moldova have expanded the number of people benefiting from publicly financed health care and the range of services covered. Better access has reduced unmet need for health care. However, this greater use of services has increased people’s exposure to out-of-pocket payments – for example, through co-payments for outpatient medicines. A new report released by WHO finds that around 1 in 6 households in the Republic of Moldova experiences catastrophic health spending.
Leaving no one behind: access to rehabilitation services is an integral part of universal health coverage 22-12-2020
Universal health coverage means that all people have access to the full range of health services they need – including rehabilitation – without experiencing financial hardship. It is vital that rehabilitation services are recognized as an integral part of universal health coverage if we are to build an equitable society.
COVID-19: a stark reminder of the importance of universal health coverage 11-12-2020
As COVID-19 spread across Europe earlier this year, many countries moved quickly to address gaps in health coverage by extending entitlement to migrants, suspending the payment of health insurance contributions for low-income self-employed people, adding teleconsultations to the benefits package and offering free access to testing and treatment of the virus.
Regional Director’s visit cements stronger cooperation on health in Albania 20-11-2020
On a recent country visit to Albania, Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, signed a 2-year agreement to work together on key health issues, and met decision-makers and health workers on the COVID-19 frontline.
Albania needs to expand population coverage to move towards universal health coverage 06-11-2020
New WHO analysis finds that out-of-pocket payments for health are a major source of financial hardship for people in Albania. Around 8% of households are pushed into poverty or further impoverished after paying out of pocket and 12% experience catastrophic health spending. The financial hardship caused by out-of-pocket payments is heavily concentrated among poorer parts of the population and is increasingly driven by household spending on outpatient medicines.
Ukraine working towards universal health coverage while responding to COVID-19 28-09-2020
Ukraine is transforming its health system so that people can get the quality health-care services they need without experiencing financial hardship.
In brief: the 70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC70) 15-09-2020
For the first time, the WHO Regional Committee for Europe took place virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Among the highlights of this year’s session was the endorsement by Member States of the European Programme of Work (EPW). The EPW sets down a 5-year vision of how WHO/Europe and Member States will work together to meet citizens’ expectations for health.
New WHO study shows how Ireland can reduce health-related financial hardship and unmet need by delivering universal access to health care 08-07-2020
In 2017, the Government of Ireland set out a ten-year plan for health reform, known as Sláintecare, to deliver universal access to health services in Ireland. A new WHO study shows how important it is for Ireland to implement the Sláintecare reforms to strengthen equitable access to health care and financial protection, building on steps already taken in response to COVID-19.
Poland can strengthen financial protection by exempting poor people from copayments for medicines 12-02-2020
New analysis from WHO shows that the incidence of catastrophic health spending is high in Poland compared to many other European Union (EU) countries. It is heavily concentrated among the poorest households, and largely driven by out-of-pocket payments for outpatient medicines.
The year ahead: key events across the WHO European Region in 2020 21-01-2020
A busy and exciting year is in store for the WHO European Region with a range of important initiatives, campaigns and events on the horizon. WHO/Europe will continue to work to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work. In February, WHO/Europe is set to welcome Dr Hans Kluge as the new Regional Director once his nomination is approved by WHO’s Executive Board. Dr Kluge will take over from Dr Piroska Östlin, Regional Director (a.i.) who, as part of her mandate, has been leading the Office’s efforts to put countries at the centre. Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab was declared Regional Director Emeritus by the 69th session of the Regional Committee in September 2019.
WHO/Europe and Norway discuss improving affordable access to innovative medicines 16-01-2020
All countries across the WHO European Region face a challenge in ensuring that high-value but expensive medicines are available in a sustainable way to people who could benefit from them.
2019: the WHO European Region’s year in review 19-12-2019
This was an important year for WHO/Europe. From working towards more affordable health care to electing a new Regional Director, much has been achieved over the past 12 months. The Region also celebrated some important anniversaries, including a quarter century of the Regions for Health Network and 30 years of tackling the most significant environmental threats to human health. While plenty of work remains, here we look back at some key moments of the last year. The stories highlight achievements across the Region as well as some specific country initiatives.
Improving access to medicines in the Republic of Moldova 12-12-2019
The Government of the Republic of Moldova is committed to making progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) with the help of a new mobile application, developed by WHO. The app helps countries collect and analyse data on medicine prices and availability, aiding policy-makers. The data is used to help inform strategies which improve the availability and reduce the price of medicines, while also assessing the impact of health reforms.
Keeping the promise of universal health coverage 12-12-2019
On Universal Health Coverage Day – 12 December 2019 – countries are being called upon to keep their promise to make health for all a reality.
Universal health coverage on the agenda as Ukraine’s Health Minister visits WHO/Europe 11-12-2019
Reforms to reduce the financial burden of health care in Ukraine were discussed as Ukraine’s Minister of Health, Dr Zoryana Skaletska, visited WHO/Europe in Copenhagen on 2 December 2019.
Gaps in access undermine universal health coverage across the EU 29-11-2019
Gaps in the accessibility of health care and a lack of data are undermining universal health coverage across the European Union (EU), say the State of Health in the EU Country Health Profiles and Companion Report.
Redesigning coverage policy to make health care affordable for everyone 19-11-2019
At this year’s European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG), the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening led a session on how countries can ensure that out-of-pocket payments for health services do not expose people to financial hardship. Efforts to reduce financial hardship are at the core of universal health coverage.
Observatory presents new research on health financing and population ageing at a side event to the G20 Health Ministers Meeting 15-11-2019
During a side event to the G20 Health Ministers Meeting, Josep Figueras, Director of the European Observatory, presented new research exploring the economic implications of population ageing, and how countries are responding and can learn from each other. The new study, produced by the Observatory in collaboration with the WHO Centre for Health Development (Kobe), seeks to address concerns of policy-makers that population ageing will lead to inexorable growth in health care spending.
New studies highlight the impact of population ageing on revenues and expenditures for health 18-10-2019
Population ageing is not a major driver of increasing health-care spending – this is a key finding of two new studies to better understand how ageing impacts public revenues and expenditures for health, produced by the WHO Centre for Health Development in Kobe, Japan, and the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies. The research was launched on the margins of the G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting in Okayama, Japan.
Harnessing disruption to improve health 14-10-2019
Disruption was the theme of this year’s European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG). Leaders in health from across Europe met to discuss how to embrace disruption in a responsible way to achieve better health for all.
Rethinking health at the 74th United Nations General Assembly 08-10-2019
A recent side event at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly, co-hosted by the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies and WHO, has demonstrated how health expenditure drives sustainable and inclusive growth rather than being a drain on the economy.
Stories of change: countries making progress towards universal health coverage 24-09-2019
World leaders yesterday committed to scale up efforts in the pursuit of health for all by adopting a United Nations political declaration on universal health coverage (UHC). Through this, United Nations Member States have pledged to invest in mechanisms to ensure no one suffers financial hardship because they have had to pay for health care out of their own pockets, and to implement high-impact health interventions to combat diseases and protect women’s and children’s health.
Estonia: making medicines affordable and accessible for all 23-09-2019
Tiiu, who lives in southern Estonia, takes care of her husband Wiktor, who needs different medications to treat his cardiovascular disease, diabetes and psoriasis. Both Tiiu and Wiktor are pensioners and had previously considered the out-of-pocket costs for their medicines to be high, despite a subsidy from the government and being eligible for additional reimbursement owing to Wiktor’s high prescription costs. While possibly being entitled to an additional reimbursement for years, Tiiu and Wiktor were unaware of this, so never applied.
Alongside European Development Days, WHO and the European Commission reinforce cooperation to help countries move towards universal health coverage 26-06-2019
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and European Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica signed the next phase of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) partnership programme for 2019–2022, worth € 123.75 million (US$ 135 million), on 18 June 2019.
Ljubljana Statement on Health Equity agreed – High-level Conference on Health Equity closes 14-06-2019
On the final day of the Conference, delegates from Member States, nongovernmental organizations and partners agreed to the Ljubljana Statement. It articulates what European Member States and partners will do to progress towards health equity, and how they will do it.
High-level Conference on Health Equity opens – achieve, accelerate and influence 12-06-2019
That reducing health inequities is politically doable, economically viable and has public support was a key conclusion on the first day of the conference. Delegates from across the WHO European Region discussed why health equity is an issue for our times, and how we can create the conditions and remove barriers for all to prosper and flourish.
Policy dialogue to support development of health financing strategy in Uzbekistan 30-04-2019
Uzbekistan has embarked on a comprehensive health financing reform to ensure equal access to health care, financial protection and equitable distribution of resources. WHO is providing technical assistance to support the development of the strategy under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and in close collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Finance.
Out-of-pocket payments for health, particularly for medicines, are unaffordable for many in Europe 05-04-2019
Even in Europe’s richest countries, people are pushed into poverty as a result of having to pay out of pocket for health services. This is one of the findings of the WHO report “Can people afford to pay for health care? New evidence on financial protection in Europe”.
Now online: Russian-language e-learning course on health financing policy 04-02-2019
The first Russian-language e-learning course on health financing policy for universal health coverage has been launched. This foundational course, developed by WHO with the guidance of the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening, is intended for participants with varying levels of experience and expertise, and will be supported by a range of devices, operating systems and browsers.
Kyrgyzstan adopts new health strategy for 2019–2030 23-01-2019
Kyrgyzstan has adopted a 12-year state strategy for the development of public health including health systems. Tagged “Healthy person – prosperous country”, the new health strategy for 2019–2030 aims to protect health, ensure access to essential quality services, strengthen primary health care and decrease financial hardship for all people and communities, in pursuit of universal health coverage (UHC) by 2030.
2018: The WHO European Region’s Year in Review 21-12-2018
The year 2018 was a momentous one for WHO, which celebrated 70 years of working to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. Here is a look back at some of the key moments from the year – highlighting both country-level activities and the collective achievements of the Region, but also emphasizing areas where continued work and even accelerated efforts will be needed to make progress.
Health reform on the agenda during Regional Director’s visit to Uzbekistan 23-11-2018
Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe made an official visit to Uzbekistan on 18–21 November 2018. A new “Concept of Health Sector Development” was launched during the visit at a national high-level intersectoral conference, “Uzbekistan health reform in the Sustainable Development Goals era” on 20 November. It is an ambitious long-term strategic plan, seeking to advance comprehensive national health reforms and meet the health-related Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
New report highlights the value of an aligned health systems response to NCDs 20-09-2018
The WHO European Region has made progress in reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the past decades, but many unexploited opportunities for acceleration remain. A new WHO report, entitled “Health systems respond to noncommunicable diseases: time for ambition”, provides pragmatic and actionable policy responses to tap into these opportunities.
Day 2 highlights: strengthening health systems to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 18-09-2018
“For us, the goal of universal health coverage is the lodestar of our health policy,” said His Excellency Prime Minister Edi Rama of Albania. From improving vaccine coverage to ensuring financial protection, strengthening health systems was a key theme on Day 2 of the 68th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Day 1 highlights: RC68 opens 17-09-2018
“Health investment is the smartest investment – it pays off,” said WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab in her opening address on the first day of the 68th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. This was a common theme also raised by the WHO Director-General and delegates alike.
Europe tops rankings on life satisfaction index, but findings expose not for all and not everywhere, WHO says 14-09-2018
WHO Regional Committee for Europe annual meeting in Rome will discuss new findings on health and well-being of people in Europe and track progress against key health targets
Making the economic case for primary health care 04-09-2018
A new European taskforce is being set up to highlight and strengthen the economic case for primary health care. Primary health care is health care received in the community, usually from family doctors, community nurses, staff in local clinics or other health professionals. It is an essential part of people-centred health systems and vital to working towards universal health coverage.
Greece analyses effects of health reform 21-08-2018
The Greek health authorities, in close collaboration with WHO/Europe and other stakeholders, have been analysing the progress of health reform in Greece and making recommendations for its future direction and improvement.
Annual meeting of ministers to set health priorities in Europe 14-08-2018
On 17 September 2018 in Rome, Italy, health ministers and high-level representatives of the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region will gather for the annual WHO Regional Committee for Europe. At this year’s 68th session, participants will consider topics including a new strategy on men’s health, financial protection and an action plan to improve public health preparedness and response.
How to ensure access to essential medicines for all? New WHO report reviews medicines reimbursement policies in Europe 18-07-2018
The new WHO report “Medicines reimbursement policies in Europe” examines the various policies that increase access to affordable medicines. Based on direct data collection from 45 of the 53 countries in the WHO European Region, it showcases diverse national practices and aims to identify key aspects of policy frameworks that protect vulnerable groups from unaffordable out-of-pocket payments for medicines.
Investment and innovation for inclusive health systems key to nations’ prosperity 18-06-2018
“Investment in health is an investment in future human development, and well functioning health systems are so essential to improve societies’ health in general.” President Kersti Kaljulaid of Estonia delivered this message in a speech at the opening of the high-level meeting Health Systems for Prosperity and Solidarity: leaving no one behind, which took place in Tallinn, Estonia, on 13–14 June 2018.
Health payments are pushing people into poverty, even in high-income countries 12-06-2018
A new WHO study shows evidence that health payments (paying for medicines and health services) are unaffordable for many people and cause financial hardship across the WHO European Region, including in high-income countries. The estimates prepared with data from 25 countries show that up to 8% of households cannot afford to pay for basic needs – food, rent, utility bills – after paying out of pocket for health care. This situation goes against the Tallinn Charter, which was adopted by 53 Member States of the Region in 2008, and states: “It is unacceptable that people become poor as a result of ill health”.
Policy dialogue to reduce out-of-pocket payments for health in Greece 30-05-2018
High levels of out-of-pocket payments for health in Greece are a cause of concern for the Greek government.
The WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing for Universal Health Coverage now open for application 16-05-2018
The next offering of the annual WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing for Universal Health Coverage on 15-19 October 2018 is now open for application.
New report makes economic case for prevention and control of NCDs in Belarus 03-05-2018
WHO recently released a new report, entitled “Prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in Belarus. The case for investment”, that provides evidence that noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) reduce economic output. The economic burden analysis provided in the publication shows that economic losses from NCDs (direct and indirect costs) are 4.6 billion Belarusian roubles (2.3 billion euros). This is equivalent to 5.4% of the country’s gross domestic product in 2015.
On World Health Day, recommit to health for all 05-04-2018
Four personal stories from the WHO European Region illustrate how countries are making progress in different ways towards universal health coverage. On World Health Day, WHO calls on leaders in the Region to recommit to health for all through concerted action for universal health coverage.
Tuberculosis services in Moscow extend “health for all” even to the most vulnerable 03-04-2018
Karam is a 23-year-old from the Khatlon region of Tajikistan. He came to Moscow in 2015 to work in construction, and 2 years later fell ill with a high fever and headache. He felt as though he had no strength, but nevertheless tried to carry on. When his condition became so severe that he was barely conscious – a state described by his doctors as the edge of life and death – Karam’s uncle, with whom he lives, called an ambulance.
Greece revises postgraduate training in family medicine to encompass people-centred care 21-12-2017
Experts have developed a revised postgraduate curriculum for general practitioners’ training in Greece, aligned with the modern principles of family medicine and people-centred care.
Financial hardship linked to inadequate health coverage policies 12-12-2017
A new analysis from WHO/Europe, released on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day alongside a global UHC monitoring report, compares financial protection in Czechia, Estonia and Latvia. It concludes that households in these broadly similar countries experience markedly different levels of financial hardship when using health services.
Systems thinking helps England plan future health and care workforce 12-12-2017
A trailblazing study has informed thinking in England about the future health and care workforce, and the skills needed to keep pace with changing health needs.
Greek health ministry addresses informal payments in health sector 23-11-2017
The Ministry of Health of Greece has initiated a dialogue with key stakeholders to better understand the root causes of informal payments in the health sector, analyse the potential implications for the health system and the population, and build consensus on feasible policy solutions.
Training supports transformation of health systems to end TB 03-11-2017
WHO/Europe organized the second WHO Barcelona course on health systems strengthening for improved tuberculosis (TB) prevention and care in order to support the transformation of the financing and delivery of TB services in the WHO European Region.
WHO course on health financing for universal health coverage in Tajikistan 25-10-2017
On 25–29 September 2017 WHO provided country-specific training on health financing for universal health coverage (UHC) in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The week-long intensive course was offered by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, with the support of a collaboration between WHO, the European Union (EU) and Luxembourg: the EU-Luxembourg-WHO UHC Partnership.
Course on health financing for universal health coverage offered in Russian 10-08-2017
Representatives from ministries of health and finance, purchasing agencies, parliaments and local authorities in 11 countries benefitted from the first Russian-language version of the WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing for Universal Health Coverage conducted recently in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan.
EU-WHO meeting addresses critical health systems issues 13-06-2017
The 5th Technical Meeting of the EU-Luxembourg-WHO Universal Health Coverage Partnership, held on 21–23 March in Brussels, deliberated on innovative solutions at the country level, to move the universal health coverage (UHC) agenda forward.
Policy forum examines strengthening health financing in Turkey 12-06-2017
A policy forum in Ankara, Turkey, on 22 February 2017, explored ways to strengthen health financing towards the promotion of the country’s health system goals.
Moving towards universal health coverage in Tajikistan: improving access to health services for vulnerable populations 07-06-2017
Over the past decade, Tajikistan has continuously articulated the overarching goal of moving towards universal health coverage (UHC). Specifically, it aims to improve access to health services and to reduce the financial burden associated with seeking health care.
Demand for the WHO Barcelona course on health financing continues to increase 02-05-2017
Now in its seventh year, the annual WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing for Universal Health Coverage, held in March 2017, was more heavily oversubscribed than ever before. With three applicants for every place, the course is an important fixture for health policy-makers in Europe. This year the 66 participants from 25 countries included senior officials from health and finance ministries, health insurance funds, major international institutions, universities and nongovernmental organizations.
Policy dialogue proposed during visit of Minister of Health of Latvia to WHO/Europe 07-04-2017
Dr Anda Čakša, Minister of Health of Latvia, met Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, on 6 April 2017. Discussions covered the implementation of Health 2020 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the need to address the social determinants of health as well as communicable and noncommunicable diseases.
Universal Health Coverage Day: building efficient health systems that provide access to quality care without financial hardship 09-12-2016
On 12 December – Universal Health Coverage Day – WHO reaffirms its commitment to support countries in providing affordable, quality health care for everyone.
Kyrgyzstan examines transforming national health system towards Universal Health Coverage 27-10-2016
Improving financial protection and access to health care for citizens was explored in in-depth technical discussions, organized in Kyrgyzstan, to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the health insurance system, on 27-30 September 2016.
Prime Minister of Latvia expresses support to increase public financing for health 03-10-2016
Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis of Latvia acknowledged the need to increase public funding on health in the country at a high-level conference held in Riga on 21 September. At the same event, Dr Anda Čakša, Minister of Health described her plans to achieve 12% of government budget allocation to health by 2018 following recommendations by WHO experts.
WHO/Europe and Ministry of Health of Greece expand collaboration on health reform priorities 30-09-2016
Greece, with support from the WHO Regional Office for Europe, has embarked on a two-year initiative as part of the country’s ongoing large-scale health sector reform. The second phase of the “Strengthening capacity for universal coverage” (SCUC2) project supports Greece’s move towards universal health coverage and will focus specifically on providing universal access to health services; establishing transparent, inclusive and modernized health governance; and ensuring fair and sustainable health financing.
Detection and effective treatment of childhood TB in Kyrgyzstan and development of national TB programme 29-08-2016
A team of WHO experts visited Kyrgyzstan on 8–11 August 2016 to provide technical assistance in the adaptation and scale up of new recommendations on fixed-dose combinations for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in children, issued by WHO in March 2016. The team also analysed the country’s existing clinical protocol and reviewed the current diagnostic and treatment algorithm, including indications for preventive treatment, as a follow-up to the WHO midterm programme review of the country’s TB prevention, control and care activities conducted in 2014.
WHO recommends additional public investment to build on health coverage achievements in Georgia 01-08-2016
At a recent high-level meeting in Tbilisi, Georgia, experts from WHO/Europe and the World Bank presented recommendations for the country to build on its achievements in moving towards universal health coverage.
WHO stresses health reform should be based on equity at high-level EU meeting 20-07-2016
Health system reform should be based on the values of solidarity and equity. This was the message WHO conveyed in its statement at a high-level meeting convened by the European Commission’s Structural Reform Support Service in Brussels, Belgium on 5 July 2016.
12th Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening: Focus on noncommunicable diseases 20-05-2016
The 12th annual Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening took place on 9–13 May, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. The course focused on the health systems' response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications through several country cases. It was designed and delivered by WHO/Europe through the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening.
Positive feedback on the health financing course on universal health coverage 13-05-2016
The sixth WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing took place on 14–18 March 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. Built on the theme of universal health coverage, the course reviewed ways to improve health systems' performance through better policy on health financing.
Access to medicines discussed during visit of Portuguese Minister of Health 20-04-2016
Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, applauded the intersectoral work that Portugal is already undertaking to address health inequalities and the social determinants of health, including efforts at the local level and through civil society, during the visit of Dr Adalberto Campos Fernandes, Minister of Health of Portugal, to WHO/Europe on 19 April 2016.
WHO-EU partnership supporting policy dialogue and the Republic of Moldova’s aspiration towards universal health coverage 08-03-2016
To highlight the achievements of the European Union (EU)-Luxembourg-WHO Universal Health Coverage Partnership for 2011–2015, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova coordinated production of a video sharing the country's experience of health policy dialogue.
First conference held in Barcelona to explore UN 2030 Agenda 18-12-2015
10-11 November 2015, Sant Pau Knowledge Center, Barcelona, Spain
New evidence: how the economic crisis has affected health systems and health in Europe 07-09-2015
Two new studies published by the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies and WHO/Europe provide new evidence on the impact of the crisis on health systems and health in Europe.
Georgia’s health financing reforms show tangible benefits for the population 14-07-2015
The Minister of Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia held a meeting with WHO/Europe, the World Bank and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Tbilisi on 24 June 2015 to present the findings of a new survey on health care utilization and expenditure.
Kyrgyzstan discussing means to boost primary health care 28-05-2015
Primary health care in Kyrgyzstan has progressively advanced in the context of the consecutive national health reform programmes: "Manas" (1996–2006), "Manas Taalimi" (2006–2010) and "Den Sooluk" (2012–2016).
Estonia takes steps to strengthen health system to address chronic diseases 11-05-2015
Estonia is making a series of concerted efforts to strengthen the health system response to reduce the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and their effects on communities. In a conference held in Tallinn in March, participants discussed health system barriers and opportunities for improving NCD outcomes in the country.
Health financing course on universal health coverage another success 05-05-2015
The fifth WHO Barcelona Course on Health Financing took place from 16–20 March 2015 in Barcelona, Spain. Built on the theme of universal health coverage, the Course reviewed ways of improving health system performance through better health financing policies.
Slovenian Minister of Health visits WHO/Europe 06-03-2015
Ms Milojka Kolar Celarc, Minister of Health of Slovenia, made an official visit to WHO/Europe on 6 March 2015. Building on the strong existing collaboration between WHO and Slovenia, the visit provided an opportunity for Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, to explain the functions, programmes and new focus areas of the Organization, including the WHO reform process and implementation of Health 2020, the European policy framework for health and well-being. It also enabled the Minister to meet and discuss key health issues with senior WHO staff.
Minister of Health of Latvia visits WHO/Europe 09-01-2015
Mr Guntis Belēvičs, the new Latvian Minister of Health, visited WHO/Europe on 7 January 2015.
Conference on Universal Health Coverage Day in Albania 19-12-2014
12 December 2014 was observed worldwide as the first-ever Universal Health Coverage Day following the unanimous endorsement of the resolution on Universal Health Coverage, by the United Nations on 12 December 2012. A national conference was jointly organized in Albania by the Ministry of Health and the WHO Country Office to promote Universal Health Coverage (UHC) as the future of the development of health sector.
Expert working group reviews progress in health financing of TB services 15-12-2014
A working group made up of senior managers and experts from national tuberculosis (TB) programmes (NTP), ministries of health and social health insurance agencies held its first face-to-face meeting on 27 October 2014 in Barcelona, Spain, to review bottlenecks, opportunities and progress in health financing reform of TB prevention and control interventions in the WHO European Region. The meeting was hosted by the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening and focused on impacts and lessons learnt related to payment mechanisms.
Progress on Tallinn Charter implementation report 29-09-2014
At a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC) in Malta, in December 2013, its members agreed to establish a Core Group representing selected Member States and partners to help WHO/Europe monitor countries’ progress in implementing the commitments of the Tallinn Charter.
Highlights of RC64 day 3 – Adoption of action plans on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment 17-09-2014
Two far-reaching action plans – on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment – were adopted, mapping the path for interventions in these areas until 2020.
New policy summary – Economic crisis, health systems and health in Europe 04-09-2014
Even in time of austerity, policy-makers have choices and can influence the effect of an economic shock on population health and the health system.
WHO and Armenia intensify collaboration towards TB control and universal health coverage 15-08-2014
WHO/Europe will work more closely with Armenia in the coming biennium as the country moves to improve control of tuberculosis (TB) and achieve universal health coverage. The decision to increase collaboration was one of the outcomes of a mission to Armenia on 22–24 July 2014 led by Dr Hans Kluge, Director of Health Systems and Public Health Services and Special Representative of the Regional Director to prevent and combat multidrug- and extensively drug-resistant (M/XDR) TB.
Reforms to continue under new leadership of Greece’s Ministry of Health 28-07-2014
Addressing the main partners in the Health Reform Support Programme (HRSP) on 24 June 2014, the newly appointed Minister of Health of Greece, Mr Makis Voridis, expressed his readiness to continue dialogue on HRSP and related activities, and to scale up communication activities to promote reforms among various stakeholders. He stressed the importance of primary health care (PHC) as the cornerstone of the Greek health system’s reform and the urgent need for prompt action to strengthen the Unified Social Health Insurance Fund (EOPYY) to ensure financial sustainability of the system.
WHO supports Cyprus in moving towards universal health coverage 15-07-2014
Cyprus and WHO have agreed to work out a plan of technical assistance covering the period July 2014 to December 2016 to accelerate reforms aiming at universal health coverage in the country. The plan will include a survey led by Cypriot experts to assess household health, use of health services and expenditure on health.
World Health Assembly, day 4: proposals on coordination of noncommunicable disease response 26-05-2014
The World Health Assembly approved proposals to improve global coordination of efforts to address noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, cancers, heart disease and stroke. It also approved a resolution to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis.
Migration and health on agenda at informal council of European Union health ministers 01-05-2014
Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, joined health ministers and high-level officials from European Union (EU) countries to discuss migration and health, in addition to the economic crisis and health care, at an informal council held in Athens, Greece on 28–29 April, as part of the Greek EU Presidency.
Tajikistan moves towards universal health coverage (UHC) 15-04-2014
Over the last decade, Tajikistan has undertaken a series of comprehensive health reforms to move towards UHC. With the support of international partners, the Government has developed a number of health policies and programmes, including a health-financing strategy for 2005–2015, to improve equity and efficiency in the health sector.
Health financing course on universal health coverage delivers 28-03-2014
The fourth Barcelona Course on Health Financing took place on 10–14 March 2014 in Barcelona, Spain. Built on the theme of universal health coverage, the Course reviewed ways to improve health systems’ performance through better policy on health financing.
Policy dialogue on health system financial sustainability in Malta 27-03-2014
WHO and the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies organised a policy dialogue to engage senior health and finance officials in discussion about how Malta can make its health system more financially sustainable
Strategic approach to health financing in the Republic of Moldova 25-03-2014
Significant changes have taken place in the National Health Insurance Company (NHIC) of the Republic of Moldova in the last 2 years, following initiation of long-term and close collaboration with WHO/Europe. The overall goal of the strategic partnership is to increase sustainability and efficiency of the health financing system.
Monitoring the impact of the financial crisis on health and health systems in Greece 03-03-2014
A workshop organized in Athens by the Ministry of Health of Greece together with WHO/Europe on 24–25 February 2014 produced a list of indicators to monitor the impact of the financial crisis and identified steps needed to collect and compile the required information.
Joint efforts to curb out-of-pocket payments for health care in the Republic of Moldova 07-02-2014
Preliminary findings of a study on drivers of out-of-pocket (OOP) payments in health care were presented at a national policy dialogue organized for key stakeholders in the Republic of Moldova on 31 January 2014 in Chisinau.
Tajikistan plans introduction of mandatory health insurance 21-01-2014
Participants at a health financing roundtable meeting organized by Tajikistan's Ministry of Health and the WHO Country Office on 2 December 2013 initiated development of a roadmap for timely and smooth introduction of mandatory health insurance in Tajikistan in 2017.
Public debate on health system financing in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 14-01-2014
On 7 December 2013, 100 representatives of medical and patient associations as well as public health experts and government officials attended the second WHO-supported national health summit organized by the Healthgrouper project in Skopje, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The event provided the opportunity for open and public debate on the difficult decisions facing the national Health Insurance Fund and the Ministry of Health related to the allocation of funds in the health sector.
European Conference puts spotlight on Greek health system reform 18-12-2013
The Conference signals the start of the implementation of the Health in Action initiative, which aims to reform the Greek health system and address the impact of the economic crisis on health.
European Conference puts spotlight on Greek health system as it faces the challenges of reform 12-12-2013
Key stakeholders from the Greek and international communities are meeting to discuss how to boost the country’s health sector as part of the Greek health reform. The High-level Conference on the Greek Reforms in the Health Sector: Improving Citizens’ Health will take place in Athens on 12–13 December 2013, and will be attended by high-level officials from the Greek Government and regional authorities, and experts from the public and private sectors, the academic community and civil society. The Conference is organized by the Ministry of Health of Greece in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
Sustainable Health Systems for Inclusive Growth in Europe 27-11-2013
The Lithuanian Presidency hosted a Health Systems Conference “Sustainable Health Systems for Inclusive Growth in Europe”, 19-20 November 2013
New HiT report describes impact of financial crisis on health services in Estonia 12-11-2013
Make health systems people centred 28-10-2013
Five years on from the signing of the Tallinn Charter: Health Systems for Health and Wealth, which called for greater investment in health systems, ministers and high-level officials met again in Tallinn, Estonia on 17–18 October 2013, at a follow-up meeting called “Health systems for health and wealth in the context of Health 2020”. The current economic crisis has underscored the need to invest in health, and focus more on addressing health inequities, ensuring universal health coverage and protecting health among the most vulnerable populations.
Options and challengs for health system financing in Slovenia 25-10-2013
A policy dialogue to discuss pressing issues of health financing reform in preparation for development of new legislative guidelines was conducted on 11 September 2013 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
The world health report 2013: research vital to universal health coverage 15-08-2013
WHO calls on all countries to invest in and produce research to develop universal health coverage tailored to their country needs. “The world health report 2013: research for universal health coverage” is launched today.
10th Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening. Focus on noncommunicable diseases 25-07-2013
WHO/Europe’s Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening is hosting the 10th Flagship Course on Health Systems Strengthening. The Course’s special theme is how to strengthen health systems to address the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
2nd Florence International Training (FIT) Course 12-07-2013
Applications are invited for the Course, which will address the impact of the economic crisis on the determinants of health and response strategies for health professionals in Europe, and will be held in Florence, Italy on 17–22 November 2013. The deadline for receiving applications is 30 August 2013..
Turkey promotes universal health coverage 28-06-2013
A ministerial conference on universal health coverage is taking place in Istanbul, Turkey, on 27–28 June 2013, organized by the Ministry of Health of Turkey; Imperial College London, United Kingdom; Istanbul Medipol University and “The Lancet”, and with the participation of WHO, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the World Bank.
Further policy dialogue with Ireland on the impact of financial crisis on health 27-06-2013
On 18 June staff from the Barcelona Office for Health System Strengthening, together with colleagues from the European Observatory, conducted a day of further policy dialogue in Ireland. The morning comprised a open meeting hosted jointly by Trinity College Dublin and The Economic and Social Research Institute(ESRI) entitled "Health Systems in the Era of Austerity" at which a number of presentations were made followed by open discussion.
Policy dialogue on performance related pay in the Republic of Moldova 20-06-2013
A policy dialogue on performance related pay, known as P4P (payment for performance), with an emphasis on primary health care was held in Chisinau, the Republic of Moldova on 13 June 2013. This was followed by a workshop on 14 June 2013 to support further improvement in the P4P system applied in Moldova. The event was organized by WHO, the Republic of Moldova Ministry of Health and the National Health Insurance Company.
Shaping the future of health care in Greece 06-06-2013
On 31 May 2013, WHO/Europe took part in a conference on shaping the future of health care in Greece, held in Athens.
World Health Assembly, day 4: disability, development and universal health coverage on agenda 27-05-2013
On 23 May 2013, World Health Assembly discussions covered the health sector’s contribution to the upcoming high-level meeting of the General Assembly on disability and development, to be held on 23 September 2013 in New York.
Third Barcelona Course on Health Financing held 17-05-2013
Held on 13–17 May 2013, the Course brought together 42 participants from 27 countries for a week-long, intensive training programme on improving health system performance through better health financing policy. It was organized by WHO/Europe’s Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening.
Reigniting economic growth and reducing unemployment are good health policy 29-04-2013
Senior government officials reached broad agreement on the policy responses needed to address the health impact of the economic crisis, during discussions at a high-level meeting in Oslo, Norway on 17–18 April 2013. Participants said that the focus should be on areas and services that encourage economic growth and that reinforce solidarity and equity (such as health, unemployment, social benefits and education). Countries can reignite economic growth and improve health outcomes at the same time.
WHO high-level mission to Greece on health systems reform 18-04-2013
Mr Andreas Lykourentzos, Minister for Health of Greece, hosted a high-level meeting on 10 April 2013 to discuss an expanded role for WHO/Europe in the health care reform process in Greece and the governance and financing arrangements for technical assistance funded by the European Union.
European experts meet to discuss impact of economic crisis on health 16-04-2013
Senior government officials representing the 53 Member States in the WHO European Region will meet in Oslo, Norway on 17–18 April 2013 to review the impact of the economic crisis on health and health systems in the Region, discuss the various policy responses, share lessons learned and agree on ways in which countries can better prepare for the future.
How has the economic crisis affected health systems? 16-04-2013
Senior policy makers from ministries of health, finance and health insurance funds, as well as patient organizations, international partners and researchers, meet in Oslo, Norway on 17-18 April 2013 to review the situation across the Region today.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
Barcelona Course in Health Financing 22-02-2013
WHO/Europe’s Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening is hosting the third Barcelona Course in Health Financing from 13 to 17 May 2013.
Using health services must not break family finances 22-02-2013
High-level officials from health and finance ministries in 27 countries, and other experts, strongly supported the ideas underlying universal health coverage – that all people, irrespective of ability to pay, should have access to the health services they need, without putting their families at financial risk – at a joint WHO/World Bank meeting in Geneva, Switzerland on 18–19 February 2013.
Focus on improving health systems’ efficiency 19-02-2013
Keep focused on improving health systems efficiency, was the WHO Regional Director for Europe’s key message to policy-makers at a meeting on 14 February 2013, organized by the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and held in Brussels, Belgium, on the impact of the financial and economic crisis on health and health systems.
Strengthening health protection in times of economic crisis: strengthening the evidence base 12-02-2013
This workshop, organized by the European Parliament’s Science and Technology Options Assessment (STOA) and the Observatory, aims to explore the role of evidence in strengthening and promoting public health in the context of the economic crisis. The workshop will take place at the European Parliament, Room ASP A5E-2, on 21 February 2013, 14.30-17.00h.
Institutional strengthening of health insurance company in Republic of Moldova paves way for improved health system performance 28-01-2013
The National Health Insurance Company (NHIC) organized a series of consultative meetings and workshops in Chisinau from 22 to 25 January 2013 to assess its organizational performance, distribution of responsibilities and work arrangement, resource distribution and structural layout. The aim is to make the NHIC more efficient and responsive to strategic needs.
Financial protection improved for Armenian citizens 15-01-2013
On 4 December 2012, WHO presented to the Armenian Ministry of Health and the State Health Agency the findings of a two-year research project on out-of-pocket health payments.
WHO joins mission to advise new Georgian Government on measures to establish universal coverage 15-01-2013
Upon request from the Ministry of Labour, Health and Social Affairs (MoLHSA), advisors from WHO/Europe, the World Bank and the United States Agency for International Development met with the new Georgian Government on 4–6 December 2012 to discuss and advise on measures to establish a universal benefit package of health services for the population.
Baltic policy dialogue explores hospital-sector reform 15-01-2013
Senior representatives of the health ministries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania recently took part in the 9th Baltic policy dialogue, focusing on hospital financing and governance as ways to support the rationalization of hospital care and improvement of performance.
Policy seminar in Kyrgyzstan connects universal coverage and service delivery modernization 20-12-2012
The Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan, with support from WHO, recently held a high-level senior policy seminar to discuss the key health system issues of universal coverage and service delivery modernization. Almost 100 participants attended the seminar on 29–30 November 2012.
Sharing experience on the governance of health financing 17-12-2012
On 28-29 November, the WHO Regional Office for Europe, through its Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening, coordinated the High Level Seminar on the Governance of Health Financing in Andorra la Vella.
The first national workshop on information and accountability in the area of women’s and children’s health took place in Azerbaijan 13-12-2012
The country teams from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan completed a self-assessment of the current situation on accountability for women's and children's health during a multi-country workshop, held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, 8-10 October 2012. In addition, the teams made a start in developing a roadmap to implement the information and accountability framework according to their specific needs and priorities.
Financial sustainability of the health systems in the WHO European Region 06-12-2012
On 27 November 2012, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Health, Sports and Welfare of the Netherlands, Mr Geert Van Maanen, visited WHO headquarters to meet the WHO Director-General Dr Chan to discuss common fields of interest, including the financial sustainability of health systems, healthy ageing and long term care.
Universal health coverage: from technical report to global movement 22-11-2012
While many countries have achieved universal coverage in the European Region, 19 million people are still subject to out-of-pocket health payments that place a catastrophic burden on their household budgets. WHO/Europe promotes policies that move towards or sustain universal coverage.
Technical workshop on the Implementation of the health financing framework under SHA 2011 12-11-2012
OECD, WHO headquarters and WHO/Europe held a technical workshop on the Implementation of the health financing framework under the System of Health Accounts (SHA) 2011 for OECD, EU and EU accession countries, on 9 October 2012, Paris, France.
Health 2020 on agenda at Economist Global Healthcare Conference 08-11-2012
How should policy makers be dealing effectively with the health challenges of today and how should they be shaping health systems for the future? Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe will make a keynote address on future challenges for global health at the Economist Global Healthcare Summit on 30 November 2012.
Training workshop on the System of Health Accounts 2011 and tracking of RMNCH expenditures 06-11-2012
The WHO headquarters, the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the Eurasian National Health Accounts (NHA) network have organized the 8th Eurasian NHA network workshop of NHA focal points in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on 12-15 October 2012.
Training course on strategic planning and costing of health system interventions in Tajikistan 05-11-2012
Within the Health Policy Analysis Support Project funded by the European Union, WHO provided intensive training on the OneHealth costing tool on 22–25 October 2012 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
Highlights and presentations of the OECD/WHO Meeting on financial sustainability of health systems in central, eastern and south-eastern Europe, now available online 30-10-2012
Given the rising urgency of managing health care expenditures and the particular characteristics and complexity of the health sector, the OECD and the WHO Regional Office for Europe organized a milestone event on the financial sustainability of health systems in central, eastern and south-eastern Europe (CESEE), in parallel with the CESEE Senior Budget Officials on 28-29 June 2012, in Tallinn, Estonia.
Health systems must reorient services to meet new challenges 29-10-2012
Recognizing that noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represent the greatest health burden for countries in the WHO European Region requires service-delivery systems to shift towards more people-centred care.
Flagship Course on Health System Strengthening: focus on noncommunicable diseases 17-10-2012
The annual Course was held in Barcelona, Spain between 25 September and 3 October 2012. It focused on assessing health systems’ performance, diagnosing barriers to their achieving better noncommunicable disease (NCD) outcomes, improving service delivery to scale up key interventions for primary prevention and disease management, and reviewing health financing instruments and financial incentives to support better NCD outcomes.
DSP participates in panel of experts to discuss the evidence behind Health 2020 at the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe 18-09-2012
On day 2 of the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, a panel discussion was held to discuss the evidence underpinning Health 2020. The Division of Health Systems and Public Health (DSP) participated in the panel, reflecting on how countries are coping with the crisis and the implication for the Health 2020 agenda.
DSP participates in technical briefing on “Health promotion and prevention of age-related chronic diseases: are health systems fit for ageing populations?” 18-09-2012
On day four of the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, a panel of experts discussed issues around the impact of ageing and the growth of chronic disease on health systems. The Division of Health Systems and Public Health (DSP) participated in the briefing, reflecting on the effects of ageing on the labour force; while many countries are raising the statutory retirement age, this will not be enough to halt the projected declining workforces in the coming decades and the subsequent deterioration in dependency ratios across the region i.e. the ratio between the working and the non-working.
Health ministers discuss policy responses to economic crisis 13-09-2012
Health ministers from the WHO European Region this week discussed strategies for developing people-centred health systems on the sidelines of the sixty-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in Malta. At a lunch meeting hosted by the Prime Minister of Malta, Mr Lawrence Gonzi , they discussed the way their health systems can be reformed in response to the economic crisis.
Release of 2011/1 Behind the estimates of out-of-pocket spending on health in the former Soviet Union 10-08-2012
WHO/Europe published a technical report reviewing the production of out-of-pocket spending data in the countries of the former Soviet Union. The report reviews different factors leading to variations of out-of-pocket spending with main focus on the methods of data collection and differences due to the reporting procedures in the countries.
Participation of WHO Barcelona Office in the European Conference on Health Economics 31-07-2012
Staff from the WHO Barcelona Office for Health System Strengthening were present at the European Conference on Health Economics 2012 held at the University of Zurich 18-21 July 2012.
WHO to support Ireland reform health systems in response to financial crisis 20-07-2012
WHO will support Ireland in assessing options for reforming its health system in response to the financial crisis, Dr Hans Kluge, Director of the Division of Health Systems and Public Health in WHO/Europe, assured the Irish Minister of Health Dr James Reilly at the end of a discussion with senior policy-makers in Dublin.
OECD/WHO Meeting on financial sustainability of health systems in central, eastern and south-eastern Europe, 28-29 June 2012 13-07-2012
Given the rising urgency of managing health care expenditures and the particular characteristics and complexity of the health sector, the OECD and the WHO Regional Office for Europe organized a milestone event on the financial sustainability of health systems in central, eastern and south-eastern Europe (CESEE), in parallel with the CESEE Senior Budget Officials (SBO) on 28-29 June 2012, in Tallinn, Estonia.
OECD/WHO meeting in Estonia to address health spending challenges 27-06-2012
A meeting on financial sustainability of health systems in central, eastern and south-eastern Europe jointly organized by OECD and WHO/Europe will take place on 28–29 June 2012 in Tallinn, Estonia. The aim of the meeting is to bring together officials from ministries of health and finance, representatives of health insurance funds and international organizations to develop a common agenda and shared understanding of fiscal sustainability challenges of health systems.
Republic of Moldova reviews financing policy options to support universal health coverage 18-06-2012
A policy dialogue entitled "Moving towards universal health coverage in the Republic of Moldova: strengthening health financing policies" was organized in Chisinau on 11–12 June 2012. The meeting aimed to provide decision-makers with an overview of the current status of and developments in universal health coverage in Europe, with a view to identifying lessons and options for the Republic of Moldova.
Latvian Minister of Health discusses policy at WHO Barcelona Office for Health System Strengthening 15-06-2012
A delegation led by Dr Ingrida Circene, Minister of Health, Latvia visited the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening on 4-5 June 2012.
Adding value to health systems through service delivery reforms 13-06-2012
On 24-25 May 2012 the first edition of MIHealth Forum took place in Barcelona, bringing together clinicians, managers and other actors in the health sector to discuss innovation and management in healthcare.
Latest issue of the Health Financing Policy Papers Series: “A review of health financing reforms in the Republic of Moldova” 08-06-2012
WHO/Europe published a new review of health financing reforms in the Republic of Moldova.
New WHO/Europe web pages on the impact of the financial crisis on health and health systems 06-06-2012
WHO/Europe launches a new web site section outlining the efforts of WHO Europe and its Member States to mitigate the negative impact of the financial crisis on health and health systems. It contains information on past and forthcoming events as well as some major publications and guiding documents.
Capacity building course key to accelerating health system reforms in the Republic of Moldova 30-05-2012
The WHO/Europe flagship course on health system strengthening and sustainable financing is taking place in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, from 28 May to 1 June 2012. The training course was organized by the Ministry of Health with the support of the WHO Country Office. Its agenda covers analysis and diagnosis of performance problems, topics related to health financing, hospital governance and quality of care, as well as specific case studies, experience sharing and group work.
First day of World Health Assembly focuses on universal health-care coverage 22-05-2012
The Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly, WHO’s annual global meeting of ministers and senior health officials, opened yesterday. In her opening address, Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, emphasized the importance of universal coverage.
Follow webcast of health-financing course 10-05-2012
Two sessions of the popular Barcelona course in health financing will be webcast for the first time in May. The introductory session, on Monday, 14 May 2012, and a keynote session on universal coverage and private financing, on Wednesday, 16 May will both be streamed
Debating opportunities for public-private partnerships in the health sector of the Republic of Moldova 28-03-2012
A workshop on "Opportunities for the implementation of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the health sector of the Republic of Moldova" was organized on 26 March 2012 with support from WHO and the World Bank. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Health and brought together over 50 representatives of the Ministry and subordinated institutions, as well as the Ministry of Finance, Public Property Agency, public and private health care providers, suppliers of health care equipment, international organizations, and independent local and external experts.
WHO/Europe to assist Greece in pharmaceutical health care pricing 23-03-2012
WHO/Europe has responded positively to a request from the Greek Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity to provide technical assistance in the field of pricing and reimbursement of pharmaceuticals and other public health areas based on a joint assessment. This was announced by Dr Hans Kluge, Director of the Division of Health Systems and Public Health, at a conference about the future of health care in Greece held in Athens on 20 March 2012.
Netherlands collaborating centre working on new approach to primary care 07-03-2012
On 20 February 2012, WHO/Europe agreed key research areas for the next two years with the Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), a WHO collaborating centre for primary care.
Barcelona course in health financing (14–18 May 2012) 06-03-2012
WHO/Europe’s Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening is hosting the second Barcelona Course in Health Financing from 14 to 18 May 2012.
Provider-payment assessment tool in development 06-03-2012
WHO, along with the World Bank and the Joint Learning Network for Universal Coverage (JLN), is developing a diagnostic and assessment guide to support countries making reforms to mechanisms for paying health-service providers.
Policy dialogue discusses Hungarian health system reforms 10-01-2012
On 30 November 2011, the government of Hungary, WHO/Europe and the WHO Country Office, Hungary, organized a policy dialogue on the impact of health system reforms implemented in recent years before 2010, and on the recommendations to institutionalize health system performance assessment (HSPA) in a country context.
Flagship course on health system performance in Estonia 18-11-2011
A multicountry flagship course was held in Tallinn, Estonia, on 14-18 November 2011, bringing together key policy-makers, and sharing the experiences of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Republic of Moldova.
Launch of follow-up review “Responding to the challenge of financial sustainability in Estonia’s health system: one year on” facilitates further policy dialogue on health financing 05-10-2011
On 4 October 2011, the Estonian Health Insurance Fund, Ministry of Social Affairs and the World Health Organization (WHO) gathered key stakeholders in Estonia to present an analysis of major changes in the health system since 2010. This was nearly one and a half years since a comprehensive analysis on the financial sustainability in Estonia’s health system was performed and launched in March 2010.
Health Financing System in the Republic of Moldova: 10th anniversary health insurance conference held in Chisinau 30-09-2011
On Friday, 23 September 2011, the National Health Insurance Company of the Republic of Moldova held a jubilee conference, The Health Financing System in the Republic of Moldova, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its founding.
Estonia shares health insurance fund experience with Republic of Moldova 30-09-2011
Within the framework of a development cooperation project, the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is financing the project “Supporting the Functioning of Moldovan Health Insurance System” conducted by the Estonian Health Insurance Fund. The main aim of this project is to support the development of Moldovan health insurance system through sharing the Estonian experience.
Seminar on hospital payment systems in Bulgaria 03-06-2011
A policy seminar “Changing the payment system for hospital care in Bulgaria to improve equity and efficiency” will be held 20-21 June 2011 in Sofia.
High-level policy-makers attend first Barcelona Course in Health Financing 27-05-2011
Forty-six high-level health professionals from 20 countries attended the first Barcelona Course in Health Financing, held from 2 to 6 May 2011. The course focused on how to improve health system performance through better health financing policies. The course was organized and delivered by the WHO Barcelona Office for Health Systems Strengthening, Division of Health Systems and Public Health.
Turkey “translated into action” Tallinn Charter on Health Systems 12-05-2011
In recent years, Turkey’s national health service has undergone major reforms, yielding significant improvements in utilization, effectiveness and health outcomes. Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, has identified Turkey as a successful example of a country implementing the values and principles of the Tallinn Charter.
First Barcelona Course in Health Financing with a focus on Universal Coverage 29-04-2011
The first Barcelona Course in Health Financing, from 2-6 May 2011, will be attended by 52 health professionals from 24 countries. The week-long intensive course will focus on how to improve health system performance through better health financing policy.
Flagship course targets health financing after the economic crisis 11-04-2011
From 11–15 April 2011, about 60 officials from government, health insurance funds and other health sector stakeholders from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland participated in a flagship course on strengthening health systems and sustainable financing. WHO/Europe coordinated the course.
Rising health care costs due to technology 18-03-2011
Rising health care costs are primarily driven by technological change (accounting for 50-75% of growth in costs) rather than other commonly perceived factors such as an ageing population (accounting for less than 10% of cost growth), according to WHO research.
New ways of paying for primary health care discussed in Belarus 10-03-2011
Representatives of the health and finance ministries, as well as the regions, met in Minsk on 1–2 March 2011 to discuss ways to further improve the financing of primary health care in Belarus.
WHO/Europe course on health financing: applications welcome 16-02-2011
WHO/Europe’s office in Barcelona, Spain will host a new course on 2–6 May 2011, focusing on universal coverage.
Seventh training course to improve health systems’ performance 11-11-2010
WHO/Europe is hosting the seventh flagship course on strengthening health systems. It brings together 47 health professionals from the Caucasus, central Asia and the Republic of Moldova, the latest of almost 500 participants.
WHO/Europe contributes to health budget discussions in Latvia 01-09-2010
WHO experts contributed to discussions 08 September 2010 at the Latvian parliament on the development of a public health strategy and the health budget.
Success of flagship course on health system strengthening continues 01-09-2010
In October 2010, over 60 government and health insurance fund officials, and other health sector stakeholders from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland are participating in a flagship course on health system strengthening and sustainable financing, coordinated by WHO/Europe.
WHO/Europe and World Bank collaborate on study of health systems 01-09-2010
Since 1990, eastern Europe and central Asia have made significantly lower gains in life expectancy than any group of middle- or high-income countries. WHO/Europe is working with the World Bank on a results-based assessment of health systems in these countries.
Conference held to discuss the future of Estonia's health system 03-05-2010
On 5 March 2010, health experts met at a conference in Tallinn to map out future solutions to health financing in Estonia. WHO Regional Director Zsuzsanna Jakab and Minister of Social Affairs Hanno Pevkur addressed the conference. The report “Responding to the challenge of financial sustainability in Estonia’s health system” was launched during the conference.