The Sphere Economy Applied to Global Healthcare
The concept of a Sphere Economy represents a forward-thinking evolution not only in societal and governmental frameworks but potentially in how we manage global healthcare. Moving from the outdated linear economy of “take-make-waste” using the traditional 2D Circular Economy, and on to a dynamic, systems thinking-based 3D Sphere Economy, we can envision a truly holistic and resilient healthcare system that addresses current challenges while promoting sustainability, efficiency, and inclusivity for maximum global impact.
From Linear to Circular Economy: A Healthcare Perspective
Historically, the linear economy has dominated our approach to resources, including healthcare. This model focuses on the extraction of resources, production of goods, and disposal of waste, leading to significant inefficiencies and environmental damage impeding the supply chain process, as evidenced most profoundly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In healthcare, this manifests as single-use medical supplies, inefficient resource allocation, and high levels of medical waste.
The transition to a Circular Economy (CE) introduces a more sustainable model. In healthcare, this involves designing systems to minimize waste, reusing and recycling materials, and optimizing resource use. For example, medical devices can be designed for durability, repairability, and recyclability. The use of sterilizable and reusable equipment can significantly reduce waste. Programs like the European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan are already encouraging such practices, aiming to reduce waste and promote sustainable growth across various sectors, including healthcare.
Towards a Sphere Economy in Global Healthcare
The Sphere Economy will take this further by integrating systems thinking into economic and healthcare models. This approach recognizes how deeply healthcare systems are interconnected with environmental, social, and economic systems, necessitating a holistic approach to problem-solving in this field on a global scale.
1. Integrative Healthcare Systems
In a Sphere Economy, healthcare systems would be designed to be integrative and patient-centered. This means creating interconnected networks of healthcare providers, patients, technology platforms, place-making and so on that facilitate seamless information flow and collaboration. Digital health technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine, would be universally accessible to healthcare providers, ensuring real-time access to patient data, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments.
Estonia’s digital health system is a great example of an integrative healthcare model. The country has implemented a nationwide EHR system that allows doctors to access patient records across different healthcare providers, improving continuity of care and reducing redundancy.
2. Preventive and Predictive Care
A Sphere Economy emphasizes preventive and predictive care, leveraging big data and AI to identify health risks for early intervention. This approach reduces the burden on healthcare systems by preventing diseases rather than treating them after they occur.
AI-powered predictive analytics are now being used to identify patients at high risk of infectious diseases as well as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart, lung, cancer, and mental health diseases. Programs like the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) are piloting AI tools to predict patient admissions, helping to allocate resources more efficiently and improve patient outcomes.
3. Sustainable Healthcare Practices
Viable sustainability is a core principle of the Sphere Economy. This includes reducing not just the carbon footprint of healthcare facilities, minimizing waste through better resource management, or promoting innovative and integrated uses of renewable energy but move beyond traditional best practices to help managers think about their habits more broadly.
For example, Kaiser Permanente, in the United States, a major healthcare provider and founder of the international managed-care model (founded in 1950), has committed to becoming carbon neutral. They have implemented energy-efficient practices, invested in renewable energy, and promoted sustainable practices across their operations, setting a benchmark for other healthcare organizations, since 2020.
Challenges and Solutions
1. Technological Integration
Integrating advanced technologies into existing healthcare systems can be complex and costly. Ensuring interoperability between different systems and protecting patient data privacy are also critical issues.
To assist in this process, governments and international bodies must set standards for interoperability and data security. Investing in infrastructure and training for healthcare professionals is essential to ensure smooth technological integration.
2. Resource Allocation
Equitable distribution of resources remains a challenge, especially in low-income regions where healthcare infrastructure is underdeveloped.
This is where international cooperation and funding can help bridge the gap. Initiatives like the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Universal Health Coverage (UHC) aim to ensure that all individuals have access to the healthcare services they need without financial hardship.
3. Cultural and Institutional Resistance
Shifting from traditional healthcare models to a Sphere Economy requires significant cultural and institutional change. Resistance from stakeholders accustomed to the status quo can impede progress.
Engaging stakeholders through education and demonstrating the long-term benefits of a Sphere Economy approach can help mitigate resistance. Pilot programs and case studies showcasing successful implementations can serve as powerful tools for advocacy.
In Conclusion
The Sphere Economy represents a visionary approach to global healthcare, addressing contemporary challenges through integrative, preventive, and sustainable practices. While there are hurdles to overcome, the potential benefits, from improved patient outcomes to environmental sustainability, make it a compelling model for the future. Healthcaresystems that integrate metrics for full accountability through regulatory agencies will ensure more efficient care. By embracing systems thinking and fostering collaboration across sectors, we can build a resilient healthcare system that meets the needs of all individuals, now and in the future.
By Linda McGoldrick Ph.D.