7-8-2023 (JAKARTA) Health ministers representing member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) have gathered in Seattle to address the urgent need for bolstering primary health care systems in the face of mounting pandemic threats. Against a backdrop of heightened challenges to public health and the broader economy, ministers from APEC nations have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the resilience and responsiveness of health systems, driven by sustainable health financing and innovative digital health solutions.
The discussions took place during the 13th APEC High-Level Meeting on Health and the Economy, led by the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, Xavier Becerra. The ministers emphasized the crucial role of robust primary care systems in enhancing pandemic preparedness and resilience. Secretary Becerra stated, “Without strong primary care systems, our health systems and people are more vulnerable and less prepared for the next pandemic.”
A key focus of the discussions was the imperative of sustainable financing for health systems. The APEC Healthcare Financing Roadmap highlighted that average government spending on health across the APEC region has remained below five percent over the past two decades. Ministers acknowledged the need for resilient, inclusive, and equitable health systems that are adequately financed to withstand future health crises.
The roadmap also revealed that out-of-pocket spending on healthcare has nearly doubled from 2003 to 2016, reaching approximately US$400 per capita. This increased financial burden places nearly one in five people in the APEC region at risk of extreme poverty due to healthcare expenses.
To address these challenges, ministers explored the potential synergy between public and private sector funding and considered ways to amplify the role of private sector involvement in healthcare. The discussions also delved into innovative financing models that could expand healthcare coverage within APEC economies.
Secretary Becerra highlighted the imperative of collectively addressing the gaps and losses in health services arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that all APEC economies must prioritize sustainability, resiliency, equity, and inclusion in their health systems. Becerra called for collaboration in exploring opportunities in digital health, advancing immunization programs, tackling mental health issues, and harmonizing health regulations.
In his call to action, Secretary Becerra urged APEC health ministers to deepen their commitment to public health improvement. “The healthier people are, the less likely they are to get sick or face serious consequences when they do. Let us move from a focus on illness care to one that prioritizes wellness. All of this, together, advances global health security and wellbeing.”
APEC, which comprises 21 economies in the Asia-Pacific region, including major players like Indonesia, Australia, China, Japan, and the United States, serves as a platform for discussions and cooperation on trade and economic matters.