New Insights from the Health Inclusivity Index

Inform your discussions and decisions this week. Governments are searching for economic growth as a way to tackle budget deficits. Our latest research shows that investing in healthcare that includes all population groups could yield significant economic gains.

Poor health among underserved groups costs billions in lost productivity and health spending. The third phase of our award-winning Health Inclusivity Index, shows how improving access to care boosts economic performance.

The Index reveals the gains to be made by removing personal, social, cultural and political barriers to health. Among 40 countries studied, a 25% reduction in low health literacy (assessed using survey questions on how well people understand and can use information received from doctors and other health professionals), could save $300bn a year. Meeting the WHO’s air-quality target would save $100bn annually. Halving anaemia in women of reproductive age – an official UN goal – would save another $48bn.

Our research highlights four underserved groups where there are gains to be made from improving health: people with low health literacy, those on low incomes, women, and individuals aged 50 and over. We examine proven, actionable interventions, and present three core recommendations for inclusive health strategies.

The Index also offers country-level insights, including data snapshots for all 40 countries. These provide useful comparisons for policymakers.

This research, authored by Economist Impact and supported by Haleon, aims to help governments, businesses and other relevant stakeholders advance inclusive health – both nationally and globally. Underserved groups include billions of people, so there is potential to improve health and unlock economic value at scale.

New findings from the Health Inclusivity Index demonstrate the economic gains of a more inclusive approach to health. Explore the impact of addressing seven key health challenges across four underserved groups: people with low health literacy, low-income earners, women, and over-50s.

In the past year, more than one in four employees took sick leave for reasons related to their mental health. As more firms recognise the business case for investing in employee wellbeing, how can they take meaningful action?

Discover how bioscience, AI and health policy can support inclusive practices and transform treatment. Join us for the tenth anniversary of the World Cancer Series Europe on June 10th-11th in Brussels to learn more.