Session 17

Health systems in crisis - the case of European periphery countries

How to secure an equitable future for all?

Organised by Viatris and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

Despite strong economic growth in Eastern and Southern European countries over the past two decades, the health of their citizens does not reflect this progress. Chronic under-investment in healthcare, combined by the backlog in operations created by COVID-19, the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, and geopolitical challenges, have resulted in significantly lower healthy years of life for citizens compared to the rest of Europe. This has deepened health and socio-economic inequalities between Eastern and Western Europe.

This session builds upon a recent study led by Professor John Yfantopoulos, highlighting the “Impact of Underinvestment on Medicines and Health Services”.  The findings of the study emphasise the urgent need for action to redress the imbalance in health between citizens of European periphery countries and the rest of Europe.

With a focus on diverse perspectives including patients, policymakers, and the off-patent pharmaceutical industry, the session aims to explore common approaches and policy interventions to improve access and health outcomes in the region. By addressing this long-standing problem, we can work towards tackling health inequalities by reducing the magnitude of health disparities and fostering a healthier future for all citizens across Europe.