International economic policies have a significant impact on the ability of countries like France and Italy to ensure universal coverage for healthcare services. These policies can either facilitate or hinder the provision of affordable and accessible healthcare services to all citizens. One of the ways in which international economic policies impact healthcare is through trade agreements. For example, trade agreements that prioritize corporate interests over public health can lead to the privatization of healthcare services, making them more expensive and inaccessible to many citizens (Labonté, 2019). This can be seen in countries that have signed trade agreements that include provisions that restrict the ability of governments to regulate the prices of essential medicines, leading to a rise in the cost of drugs and reducing access to essential treatments.
Another way in which international economic policies impact healthcare is through the implementation of austerity measures. In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, many countries, including France and Italy, implemented austerity measures to address their budget deficits. These measures often involve cuts to public spending, including healthcare, which can lead to a reduction in the quality and availability of healthcare services. This can result in a decline in the health of the population and an increase in healthcare costs due to a higher burden of disease. International economic policies can also impact healthcare through the allocation of resources. For example, the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) requires member countries to provide strong intellectual property rights for pharmaceuticals (Correa, 2020). This can lead to a concentration of resources in the pharmaceutical industry and a decrease in funding for other areas of healthcare.
In conclusion, international economic policies can have a significant impact on the ability of countries like France and Italy to ensure universal coverage for healthcare services. While some policies can facilitate access to affordable and accessible healthcare, others can restrict it. It is, therefore, important for countries to carefully consider the impact of international economic policies on their healthcare systems and take action to ensure that the health of their citizens is protected.
References
Correa, C. (2020). Trade related aspects of intellectual property rights: A commentary on the TRIPS agreement. Oxford University Press.
Labonté, R., Crosbie, E., Gleeson, D. et al. (2019). USMCA (NAFTA 2.0): Tightening the constraints on the right to regulate for public health. Global Health 15, 35. Web.