Health systems in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: A comparative analysis for evidence-based policy and planning

Description

This study examines the health and health system profiles of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries from 2000 to 2020 (or the latest available data), using time-series data from the World Health Organization, World Bank, and United Nations Development Program. Key indicators analysed include socioeconomic trends, health expenditures, and health outcomes. Descriptive data analysis was conducted in Microsoft Excel. The findings reveal significant progress in reducing child and maternal mortality across the region. However, persistent challenges include the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, particularly diabetes, mental health conditions, and high levels of PM2.5 air pollution. These issues signal an urgent need for targeted public health interventions. The study calls for comprehensive, context-specific strategies to address chronic disease risk factors through health education, lifestyle interventions, and improved healthcare access. In
light of declining fertility rates and shifting demographic trends, it also emphasizes the importance of proactive, evidence-informed reproductive health and family planning policies. These insights provide critical guidance for policymakers aiming to strengthen health system performance and improve population health outcomes across the GCC.