From Fertility to Longevity: Health Systems for the Full Life Course

Declining fertility rates and rapidly ageing populations are reshaping demographic profiles across both high- and middle-income countries, with profound implications for economic sustainability, workforce participation, and health system design. Health systems are increasingly required to support wellbeing across the full life course — from fertility and reproductive health to healthy ageing and longevity — yet remain largely organized around episodic, siloed care. This session will examine how health systems must adapt to these demographic realities, including changes in service delivery, financing, workforce planning, and data-driven decision-making. Panelists will discuss where innovation, investment, and policy alignment are most needed to support equitable access, population health, and quality of life across longer lifespans.