Zurich Insurance Group has released a new report, The Value of Chronic Care, highlighting the growing need for healthcare systems to adapt to the rising burden of chronic diseases. Covering all 38 OECD countries, the report introduces a new index that evaluates how prepared healthcare systems are to manage long-term illnesses. The findings suggest that better health outcomes depend less on healthcare spending and more on how effectively care is coordinated, integrated and delivered over time.
According to the report, chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and mental health disorders are becoming long-term health challenges affecting millions of people worldwide. While medical advancements have helped reduce premature deaths, more individuals are now living longer with chronic illnesses that require continuous care. This trend places increasing pressure on healthcare systems, economies and household finances.
Alison Martin, Chief Executive Officer of Life, Health and Bank Distribution at Zurich Insurance Group, said healthcare systems must shift their focus toward prevention, earlier intervention and stronger collaboration between public and private sectors. She noted that helping people remain healthier for longer not only improves quality of life but also strengthens financial resilience and workforce productivity.
The report also reveals that countries with similar healthcare resources often produce very different outcomes due to differences in care coordination and accessibility. Switzerland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway and South Korea rank among the strongest performers, while several Eastern European countries continue to face significant challenges. Zurich believes policymakers, employers and insurers all have an important role in building more proactive healthcare systems that prioritize prevention and long-term disease management.
