The Economist – Healthcare outlook, 2024

EIU, the research division of The Economist Group, provides intelligence for corporations, governments, and academic organizations. Key points for 2024 include a 6.1% rise in healthcare spending, with resources remaining constrained due to government fiscal deficits and debt levels. Pharmaceutical spending is expected to increase by 6.5%, despite efforts to regulate drug prices. Climate change threatens health systems, while digital health investments in artificial intelligence are on the rise. Global health spending is expected to outpace inflation, though resources will remain tight in many countries. Health provision dissatisfaction may lead to pressure on governments, especially in countries facing elections. Drugmakers will face challenges from pricing, production, and competition. The outlook includes increased scrutiny on data access and AI ethics, and pressure to reduce global emissions.