European health sector improves despite crisis: Survey

Despite financial crisis and media alarm signals, European healthcare keeps improving its performance! The gradual breakthrough of health consumer empowerment drives quality and access. That is one of many conclusions from the 6th edition of the Euro Health Consumer Index (EHCI), presented in May 2012.

The Index champion was the Netherlands, gaining 872 out of potential 1000 points. The Dutch were followed by Denmark, Iceland, Luxemburg and Belgium, the top group of this 34-country benchmark.

Since the previous Index (2009) scores have risen – but there are also warning signs. There is a widening gap between the top countries and the weakest. The Netherlands should set the standard for European healthcare reform, argues the EHCI owner, the Sweden-based think tank Health Consumer Powerhouse (HCP).

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Dutch health system retains ‘Best in Europe’ crown http://www.europeansources.info/record/dutch-health-system-retains-best-in-europe-crown/

Website: Health Consumer Powerhouse http://www.healthpowerhouse.com/

Health Consumer Powerhouse: Euro Health Consumer Index 2012 http://www.healthpowerhouse.com/files/Report-EHCI-2012.pdf

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