Healthcare Innovation Workshop at the World Economic Forum in Geneva (Switzerland)

Prof. Dr. Dennis Ostwald highlighted the need for a shared framework that makes the broader impact of health visible across policy areas. Health investments and healthcare innovation can also contribute to environmental sustainability and climate resilience, creating benefits that reach far beyond the health sector.

14. September 2026 All day

Health is one of the most important investments for societies. However, its value is often still viewed primarily within the context of the health care system. As a result, its impacts on the economy, society, and other policy areas are sometimes overlooked.

Recent discussions have highlighted the importance of a common framework that makes these broader effects visible. Health is closely linked to productivity, economic development, and societal resilience, and can help reduce future socioeconomic burdens.

Appropriate indicators can help illustrate the societal and economic benefits of health investments and support decision-makers in their investment decisions. The contribution of health innovations to environmental sustainability and climate adaptation should also be taken into account.

Against this backdrop, the focus is on developing a comprehensive Health Impact Framework designed to holistically capture the societal benefits of health investments.

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