In Focus

These are the world’s healthiest and unhealthiest countries

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Asia figured prominently in healthcare, with Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan securing the second, third, and fourth positions, respectively

HealthLEADS Desk

Singapore has topped the highest quality of healthcare services and overall index of the state of health in the year 2023. The index, compiled by Statista’s Anna Fleck using data from the Legatum Prosperity Index, a London-based think tank, sheds light on how different health systems around the world compare.

Asia figured prominently in the ranking, with Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan securing the second, third, and fourth positions, respectively. These countries’ stellar performance can be attributed to their robust healthcare infrastructure and efficient access to health services.

The rankings were determined based on various parameters, including mortality rates, illness prevalence, and overall risk factors affecting the population’s health.

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However, the United States, despite being a global economic powerhouse, falls behind in the rankings, settling for the 38th position. The US healthcare system faces challenges in terms of accessibility, affordability, and equity, contributing to its relatively lower placement in the ranking.

On the other end of the spectrum, the bottom five countries in the ranking comprise Somalia, Lesotho, Chad, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic. These nations struggle with limited access to healthcare services, high mortality rates, and various health risks, resulting in their lower rankings. The findings highlight the urgent need for interventions and investments to enhance healthcare infrastructure and address the health disparities faced by these nations.

The ranking is part of a comprehensive index that evaluates multiple factors influencing a country’s overall prosperity. The inclusion of education, investment environment, and governance indicators provides a holistic assessment of a nation’s well-being beyond its healthcare system.

As global health continues to be a critical issue, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders worldwide can utilize this ranking to identify best practices and learn from the top-performing countries.

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