Global healthcare faces inequities; nurses essential for universal health coverageNovember 26, 2024
The global healthcare landscape is marked by profound inequities and unprecedented challenges. Nearly half the world's population lacks access to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and over 100 million people fall into extreme poverty each year due to medical expenses. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes claim 41 million lives annually, accounting for 71% of global deaths. Simultaneously, communicable diseases remain a persistent threat, especially in low- and middle-income countries, exacerbated by vaccination setbacks and humanitarian crises.
This stark reality underscores the vital role of nurses in healthcare. Speaking at the 22nd Asia Workforce Forum (AWFF) and the 18th Alliance of Asian Nurses’ Association (AANA) meeting, held from November 20-22, Howard Catton (pix), President of the International Council of Nurses (ICN), delivered a powerful call to action. Hosted by the Malaysian Nurses Association and ICN, the forum brought together representatives from College of Nursing Hongkong, Indonesia National Nurses Association, Indian Nurses Association, Japanese Nursing Association, Nurses Association of Macau, Philippine Nurses Association, Singapore Nurses Association, Taiwan Nurses Association and Nurses Association of Thailand. The true cost of inadequate healthcare systems Poor health systems and substandard care exact an enormous toll on individuals, economies, and societies. Key insights include:
Conversely, effective UHC has the potential to save 60 million lives and increase global life expectancy by 3.7 years by 2030. The economic case for investing in health and nursing Howard emphasized that health is a driver of economic growth and prosperity. A healthy population contributes more actively to society and the economy, creating a significant return on investment. For every dollar invested in healthcare, there is an estimated economic return of USD 2 to 4, potentially boosting global GDP by USD 12 trillion (or 8%). To achieve a UHC score of 80/100, as outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO), countries need a workforce of 70 nurses per 10,000 population. Yet, three-quarters of nations fall short of this benchmark. Howard reiterated that investing in nurses is not a burden but an accelerator for economic growth, with far-reaching benefits, including gender equality, poverty alleviation, and social cohesion. Strengthening the nursing workforce The nursing profession, predominantly female (90%), plays a central role in achieving UHC and sustainable development goals. However, significant investment is required to unlock the full potential of nurses through advanced practice and expanded roles. Howard highlighted the economic evidence supporting this investment:
Despite widespread recognition of nurses' importance, tangible support—such as increased funding and improved working conditions—remains insufficient. Howard stressed the need for governments and world leaders to transform warm words into actionable investment, echoing this year’s International Nurses' Day theme: “The Economic Power of Care.” Climate change and health: A crisis of our time Climate change is one of the greatest health threats facing humanity, with nurses standing at the forefront of its impacts. Rising temperatures, natural disasters, and extreme weather events exacerbate health inequities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries. Howard highlighted the integral role of nurses in disaster management, encompassing:
From the COVID-19 pandemic to recent conflicts and natural disasters, nurses have consistently demonstrated their ability to lead in crisis response. However, these efforts must be supported through systemic investment and collaboration. Rising violence against healthcare workers One alarming trend is the increasing violence and attacks on healthcare workers and facilities. Over 1,000 healthcare workers have died since 2022 due to conflicts, with attacks on medical facilities rising by 75% in just three years. In response, the ICN has called on the United Nations to enforce humanitarian laws protecting healthcare workers. "When political failures lead to conflict, it is nurses who pay the price," Howard stated. The ICN’s 'Nurses for Peace' initiative exemplifies global solidarity, with associations worldwide supporting colleagues in conflict zones like Ukraine and Sudan. Advancing nursing leadership and technology As healthcare systems face mounting pressures, the ICN’s 125th anniversary declaration on the future of nursing outlines a roadmap for progress, including:
The upcoming 'State of the World’s Nursing Report 2025', announced by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, will further highlight the critical role of nurses in shaping global health policies. A call to action The G20 Health Ministers' Summit in October 2024 acknowledged the urgent need to address global health workforce challenges, including fair pay, equitable distribution, and improved working conditions for healthcare workers. Leaders also committed to safeguarding health workers in conflict settings and tackling gender pay disparities. Howard urged attendees to hold governments accountable for these commitments, emphasizing that investing in nursing is a cornerstone of building resilient, equitable healthcare systems. “When people are well, they work, contribute to society, and support their families. Spending on health is not a drag—it’s an accelerator,” Howard concluded. |
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