According to a WHO survey conducted in March 2025 across 108 countries, several regions are experiencing a reduction in medical services, including vaccination and maternity care, by up to 70%. More than 50 countries reported mass layoffs of healthcare personnel and issues in training specialists.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation as critical, emphasizing that sudden and unprepared cuts in financial aid have already led to loss of human lives and jeopardized the achievements made in recent years. However, he also pointed out the opportunity to use the crisis as a means to transition to sustainable development, relying on internal resources.
In the new WHO document titled "Response to the Health Financing Emergency: Urgent Actions and Long-term Changes," specific steps are proposed for countries to cope with financial difficulties and create a sustainable healthcare system. WHO urges governments to view investments in healthcare as an important aspect of stability and economic resilience.
Even in times of crisis, healthcare must remain a political and budgetary priority.Among the recommendations are the protection of healthcare budgets and key services, especially for the most vulnerable populations. WHO also suggests increasing spending efficiency, which can be achieved through smart procurement, optimizing administrative costs, and integrating externally funded programs into the overall primary healthcare system. Additionally, the organization advises using modern technologies and analytical tools to select the most effective medical services and medications.
The new WHO recommendations are based on the principles of universal health coverage and a strong primary healthcare system, and they align with the decisions of the World Health Assembly, including resolutions on strengthening global health financing and health economics.
In December 2025, WHO, in collaboration with the government of Japan and the World Bank, will launch a new Knowledge Hub (UHC Knowledge Hub) that will facilitate the exchange of experiences, provide technical support, and address financial challenges.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: bishkek.gov.kg.
