The industry confronts issues stemming from the post-Covid-19 era, health disparities, mental health concerns, and an increasingly aging population.
IHCO Reflection on the Past Year and Vision for the Future
Review of 2023:
The conclusion of 2023 marked a momentous period for the International Health Cooperative Organisation (IHCO). The General Assembly held during this time drew participation from delegates spanning four continents, accentuating the global success and influence of health co-operatives. This pivotal gathering not only shared diverse experiences but also underscored the pivotal role health co-operatives play in enhancing global health systems. Witnessing the collective commitment of representatives from around the world reaffirmed our confidence in the transformative potential of co-operative healthcare models.
Throughout the year, I had the privilege of visiting health co-operatives in various countries, including Brazil, Panama, Chile, Bulgaria, and Greece. These visits offered valuable insights into the adaptability, inclusivity, and community-centric approach of health co-operatives.
In our commitment to elevating the visibility of health co-operatives, 2023 witnessed dedicated efforts in raising public awareness. Recognizing the crucial role of co-operatives in advancing Universal Health Coverage, a key objective of the UN’s 2030 Agenda, remains central to our mission.
IHCO experienced significant growth in 2023, with the inclusion of Sermecoop, a Chilean co-operative, as our 20th member organization. This expansion solidifies our commitment to building a global network of health co-operatives, leveraging collective expertise and fostering a community dedicated to transformative healthcare practices.
Anticipations for the Future:
Entering 2024, we confront a spectrum of challenges exacerbated by the lingering effects of the global pandemic. Healthcare systems worldwide continue to face strain, intensifying existing health disparities and resource gaps. The mental health consequences of prolonged crises demand urgent attention, alongside the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases. An ageing population further stretches healthcare resources, and geopolitical uncertainties and environmental crises pose additional threats to healthcare stability and accessibility.
Despite these challenges, our commitment to our mission remains resolute. We aim to bolster awareness of health co-operatives and their positive impact on healthcare systems and communities at large. By fostering inter-cooperation, we seek to promote collaborative relationships among our members, facilitating collective growth.
Looking ahead to the coming year, IHCO is dedicated to maintaining its role as a knowledge hub for health co-operatives. We aim to gather, generate, and disseminate information, providing valuable insights to our members and the broader community. Recognizing the power of knowledge sharing in effecting positive change, we are committed to facilitating this process to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
Integral to our mission is the support of our member organizations in their advocacy and lobbying endeavors. We recognize the importance of amplifying their voices and driving positive policy changes at national and local levels.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year 2024!
President, International Health Cooperative Organisation
