Providing Healthcare to an Increasing (and Ageing) Population

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Ms. Alexandra Lourenço, a third-year medical student at the University of Beira Interior, in Portugal. She is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

The world’s population has been on a relentless upward trajectory, bringing along with it a significant demographic shift and an increasingly ageing population. As medical advancements continue to extend human lifespans, the challenges of providing adequate healthcare to all people have come to the forefront.

As of November 2022, it is estimated that the global population surpassed the 8 billion mark, and projections indicate it will rise much further in the decades to come. Such rapid population growth poses critical challenges for healthcare systems worldwide, leading to escalating healthcare costs. Consequently, hospitals are beginning to face issues of overcrowding and extended waiting times for medical procedures, demanding urgent infrastructure expansion and modernization efforts.

Notably, the overall population growth is accompanied by a surge in older adults. According to the United Nations, by 2050, one in six people will be aged 65 or older, amounting to over 2 billion individuals. This demographic shift is particularly important as older individuals tend to require more healthcare services than their younger counterparts, leading to increased hospital admissions and longer stays.

To address these challenges effectively, governments can play a pivotal role by implementing policies that expand healthcare coverage and promote preventive care. By emphasizing preventive healthcare measures and health education, the burden of chronic diseases can be reduced, leading to a healthier population overall.

Additionally, it is crucial to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes between different regions. International collaborations can facilitate knowledge sharing and resource allocation, providing more equitable healthcare solutions worldwide. NGOs and philanthropic organizations can also actively support global health initiatives, especially in areas where governments may lack funding and infrastructure.

While the healthcare demands posed by an increasing and ageing world population are undeniably daunting, embracing innovative technologies can also provide potential solutions. Telemedicine, artificial intelligence, and data analytics can improve healthcare efficiency and accessibility, reaching remote and underserved populations.

Furthermore, implementing strategic policies to support healthcare professionals, such as promoting work-life balance and providing training opportunities, can help attract and retain talent in the healthcare industry. This is essential as a growing population places additional strain on the healthcare workforce.

The impact of an increasing world population on healthcare provision is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. Governments, healthcare institutions, and organizations must work together to develop and implement comprehensive strategies that address the challenges of an ageing population and rising healthcare demands. By taking decisive action today, we can ensure that the increasing world population receives the care they deserve. Through innovation, collaboration, and targeted policies, we can pave the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for healthcare worldwide.

About the author

Alexandra Lourenço is a third-year medical student at the University of Beira Interior, in Portugal. Driven by a strong desire to make healthcare more inclusive, she is dedicated to learn about the medical problems faced by various individuals and minorities. In her free time, she enjoys learning new languages and exploring different cultures.