WFSA Statement to 74th WHO Regional Committee for Europe on a framework for resilient and sustainable health systems in Europe 2025-2030.
Agenda item: Framework for action on resilient and sustainable health systems in the WHO European Region 2025–2030
Statement delivered by WFSA Council Members, Professor Hilal Ayoglu and Dr Else-Marie Ringvold
The World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) emphasizes the vital role anaesthesiologists play in building resilient and sustainable health systems. As key providers of perioperative care, anaesthesiologists ensure safe surgical procedures, critical and emergency care, and pain management, all of which are fundamental to health systems’; capacity to respond to both routine and emergency situations.
To be blunt – without effective anaesthesia services member states will not be able to implement this Framework fully.
Unfortunately, in many European countries, a chronic underinvestment in anaesthesia has led to a shortage in both anaesthesiologists and the vital services they provide.
We urge member states to prioritize investments in anaesthesia services, including the training and retention of skilled anaesthesiologists. We call for improved access to essential equipment and medications that anaesthesia professionals need to ensure that services is safe, effective and available to all.
Engaging anaesthesiologists in leadership and strengthening anaesthesia services not only enhances patient care but also coordination, improves resource allocation, and strengthens regional health systems and capacity and supports the broader goal of creating environmentally sustainable health systems for the future.
The WFSA and its national member societies stand ready to support the WHO and member states with the robust anaesthesia services needed for resilient and sustainable health systems capable of advancing UHC and safeguarding health security in the region.
