WHO-Hosted Webinar Addresses Strengthening Health Systems for Ageing Populations in Pacific Island Countries

Webinar Focuses on Pacific's Ageing Demographic

The Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policies (APO), an initiative hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO), recently held a 75-minute webinar titled 'Ageing in the Pacific: Strengthening health systems and policies for population ageing'. The event brought together experts to discuss critical strategies for enhancing health systems in Pacific island countries (PICs) to meet the unique demands of their growing older populations.

The webinar underscored the significant demographic shift occurring in the Pacific region, characterized by increased life expectancy. This trend, coupled with existing health system challenges such as noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, places population ageing at the forefront of the regional policy agenda.

Addressing Unique Challenges in Pitcairn and Beyond

The discussion highlighted the urgent need for health systems to evolve, moving from episodic care to more integrated, long-term, and person-centred support for older individuals. This transformation is crucial for building resilient and responsive health systems across the region.

For the Pitcairn Islands, a UK territory with approximately 40 residents, the issue of an ageing population is particularly acute. Projections indicate that within five years, about 80% of Pitcairn's residents will be over 65 years old. The island's health clinic, while offering essential services, faces limitations in diagnostics and specialist care, with medical evacuations being both difficult and costly. The basic functioning of the community, which relies on residents' contributions, is increasingly challenged by the ageing demographic and the prevalence of NCDs.

Policy Brief and Expert Contributions

The webinar was informed by a recent APO Policy Brief titled 'Strengthening the health system response to population ageing in Pacific Island Countries'. This brief, developed in collaboration with regional experts, identifies system-level pressures, policy gaps, and actionable strategies for promoting healthy ageing in resource-constrained and geographically dispersed settings.

The agenda included an introduction to APO and the policy brief, a presentation of key findings and recommendations, and a panel discussion on strategic health system responses. Notable speakers and discussants included Dr. Anna Palagyi from The George Institute for Global Health, Dr. Mai Ling Perman of Fiji National University, Dr. Ilisapeci Kubuabola from the Pacific Community, and Dr. Mikiko Kanda from the WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific. The session was moderated by Dr. Nima Asgari, Director of the Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policies.

Future Outlook for Healthy Ageing

The Western Pacific Region is experiencing one of the fastest rates of population ageing globally, with the number of people aged 65 and older expected to nearly double from over 245 million in 2020 to approximately 458 million by 2040. This trend necessitates a 'whole-of-society approach' to healthy ageing, encompassing health system transformation, community-based integrated care, and fostering technological and social innovation. The WHO's Regional Action Plan on Healthy Ageing in the Western Pacific provides a framework for member states to address these challenges and opportunities.