The World Bank has unveiled two crucial reports on health spending trends as countries strive to meet the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Released under the titles Investing in Health: Time for a Rethink and Global Health Expenditure Outlook 2029, these reports provide vital insights into government health investments in nearly 170 countries.
The first report, examines government health spending in 63 low- and lower-middle-income countries from 2015-2023, identifying financial declines in many countries that threaten the SDG targets. The second report, projects health spending trends through 2029, spotlighting the varied fiscal pressures facing 170 countries. The report warns that, without targeted policy action, health budgets in many low- and middle-income countries will likely fall short of sustainable levels, jeopardising efforts toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
The Reports
Government Health Spending Trends Through 2023: Peaks, Declines, and Mounting Risks
As countries confront these fiscal challenges, the World Bank urges governments to bolster health investments, prioritise efficient resource allocation, and engage in global cooperation to close financing gaps and protect healthcare goals.
