Healthcare costs have doubled over the past 12 years because of inefficiencies in the system rather than the greying of the population, according to research institute Nyfer.

Nyfer says people are getting healthier and only 15% of the increase can be attributed to the fact people are living longer. This year, spending on healthcare will reach some €5,600 per person, double the cost in 2000, Nyfer says.
The biggest problem is that healthcare providers have no interest in targets and are more concerned with delivered care rather than with health and quality of life. This leads to a lack of investment in prevention and improving lifestyles, the report says.
The report states care should be aimed at keeping people involved in society and should be more accessible and better organised. This means healthcare providers such as hospitals, home care and chemists need to work more closely together.