In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 healthiest countries in the world. If you wish to learn about the global healthcare landscape, head straight to the 25 Healthiest Countries In The World.
5. Japan
Average Health Index: 75.94
Japan is consistently ranked among the healthiest countries, with a life expectancy of over 84 years. Factors include a low obesity rate, a nutritious diet, and high-quality healthcare. Their traditional cuisine and cultural practices like “hara hachi bu” and regular exercise contribute to health. Japan spent around 11% of its GDP on healthcare in 2020, reflecting its commitment to public health. With a GDP per capita of $40,586 in 2019, Japan’s well-funded healthcare system ensures accessible coverage.
4. Spain
Average Health Index: 76.82
Spain is recognized as one of the world’s healthiest countries, attributed to high life expectancy, the Mediterranean diet, and universal healthcare. In 2021, Spain’s mandatory per capita expenditure on healthcare was $2,926.3 USD. Recent reports consistently rank Spain as the healthiest country globally, with forecasts indicating one of the highest lifespans by 2040.
3. Sweden
Average Health Index: 77.57
Sweden is recognized as one of the healthiest countries globally, with a well-funded healthcare system providing universal access. Sweden spends $6,438 per capita on health, exceeding the OECD average, which accounts for 10.7% of GDP, higher than the OECD average of 9.2%. The country has 4.3 practicing doctors and 10.7 practicing nurses per 1,000 population, higher than the OECD averages. With low smoking rates, obesity levels, and a high life expectancy of 83 years, Sweden leads in promoting a healthy population.
2. Finland
Average Health Index: 78.39
Finland is one of the top countries in life expectancy, with low mortality rates from cancer and smoking. The country has a high percentage of people who are actively exercising. In 2019, Finland’s healthcare expenditure totaled EUR 22.0 billion, marking a 3.0% increase in real terms. Per capita expenditure amounted to EUR 3,983. Healthcare spending represented 9.2% of GDP, up by 0.2 percentage points from the previous year.
1. Australia
Average Health Index: 60.6
Australia’s robust healthcare system, including Medicare, offers accessible medical services, yet the nation grapples with high obesity and heart disease rates. In 2021-22, Australia’s total health spending reached $241.3 billion, translating to $9,365 per person, marking a 6.0% increase in real terms, surpassing the decade average growth of 3.4% annually. Government health spending surged by 9.5%, while non-government spending experienced an estimated decline of 2.4%.
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