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New Survey Reveals Growing Healthcare Concerns in Europe

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Europe’s population is aging rapidly. By 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older will rise to nearly 130 million ¹ —yet these extra years may not be spent in good health.

At the same time, chronic diseases are increasing 2, and healthcare systems are under strain, with longer wait times, staff shortages, and growing demands 3. New public research commissioned by Roche and conducted by GWI reveals growing concerns across France, Germany, Spain, and the UK. The study, based on insights from over 6,600 respondents, highlights that access to quality healthcare is now among the top public concerns.

To better understand these challenges, the study explored public perceptions of healthcare systems across Europe. The findings paint a clear picture of growing concern:

  • Healthcare ranks among the top public concerns in Europe: While inflation (69%) and economic stability (51%) remain dominant worries, access to quality healthcare (43%) now ranks in the top five priorities from 16 options. In France, it is the second-most pressing concern.

The majority of respondents believe their healthcare systems have either deteriorated or remained unchanged since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

believe healthcare quality has remained the same

think it has worsened

believe it has improved

This sentiment is particularly strong in the UK, where five times as many respondents feel that their healthcare system has worsened over time.

The general mood surrounding the future of healthcare is one of frustration, concern, and a sense of helplessness, exacerbating an overall feeling of pessimism.

At the same time, Europeans recognise the need for trade-offs to improve healthcare. Many are willing to share personal data (49%) and embrace digitalisation (49%) for efficiency gains. Fines for missed appointments (47%) also see notable support, signalling openness to greater accountability. However, resistance remains when it comes to higher costs—31-34% reject tax or insurance increases—private sector involvement (27%) and AI-driven automation (27%) in healthcare.

When asked about the most critical improvements needed for healthcare success, respondents prioritized the following:

  1. Shorter waiting times for appointments and treatments (62%)

  2. Early detection and diagnosis of symptoms (51%)

  3. Access to top doctors and specialists (44%)

  4. Convenient access to treatment close to home (42%)

  5. Availability of the latest treatments and medical advancements (40%)

These findings highlight the public's recognition of medical and technological innovation as key to improving healthcare—with early detection ranking second and access to cutting-edge treatments ranking fifth.

Strong Support for Increased Investment in Healthcare Innovation

Every 8 seconds, a new baby is born in Europe—a life filled with hope, dreams, and endless possibilities. A sibling, a child, a future parent.

But as we celebrate new beginnings, we are also entering the Era of Longevity. Europe’s population is aging, and healthcare systems are under growing strain. Longer waiting times, staff shortages, and rising demands are already a reality. By 2050, one in three Europeans will be over 65. 

The question is—how do we ensure that longer lives are healthier lives?

This is a moment of opportunity. By working together, we can build a Europe that not only adapts to demographic change but thrives because of it. Investing in innovation today will help create a healthcare system that is sustainable, efficient, and ready for the future.

Europeans understand that health is wealth—that well-being is the foundation of a strong society. The choices we make together will shape the future for generations to come.

Let’s make longevity an era of possibility. Let’s shape the future of health today

Health improvements contributed to one-third of economic growth in advanced economies over the past century 4. This is in line with the majority of respondents, who believe that politicians should do more to prioritize and invest in innovative medicines and treatments.

The message from the public is clear: healthcare investment is not just a health issue—it’s an economic development and societal necessity.  Every $1 invested in health generates $2-$4 in economic returns. In some cases, productivity gains fully offset costs 5. 

Now is the time to act— Let’s make longevity an era of possibility. Because longevity is not just about adding years to life — it’s about adding life to those years.

#TheEraOfLongevity #HealthIsWealth #ValueOfInnovation

References

  1. Eurostat. (n.d.). Ageing Europe - Statistics on population developments. European Commission. Retrieved from

  2. The Lancet. (2020). Global burden of disease: Shaping the future of human health. The Lancet, 395(10241), 1135-1206. Retrieved from

  3. Health Policy Watch. (2023). Europe struggles to keep health systems afloat. Retrieved from

  4. JSTOR. (n.d.). Health system sustainability: Economic and policy challenges. Retrieved from

  5. McKinsey & Company. (2020). Prioritizing health: A prescription for prosperity. Retrieved from

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