2 new reports reveal that Slovenia has made substantial and sustained gains in health that compare well with the EU15 countries and the wider European Region. Life expectancy has improved, thanks to decreases in premature deaths from causes such as heart disease and cancer. Slovenia has achieved universal health coverage, demonstrated a national commitment to aligning policy with Health 2020 and made good progress toward Health 2020 goals. Immunization rates are among the highest in the European Region.

• Slovenia. Highlights on Health and Well-being is a succinct summary focused on trends and key policy issues emerging from available information and evidence.
• Slovenia. Profile of Health and Well-being is a lengthier document intended for use by public health professionals and specialists requiring greater detail.

Both documents are produced in collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Slovenia using the latest available data. A wide range of readers, including policy-makers, the public health community, academia and the general public, can use the reports.

Slovenia is the second country to be covered by the in-depth analysis series that began with Greece in May. The series will gradually cover as many Member States as possible.

A high degree of equality

Slovenia has one of the lowest rates of out-of-pocket expenditure in the European Region, showing that the health system provides good protection against the cost of ill health. The data show differences in health status among different parts of the country and different socioeconomic groups; however, the Gini coefficient (an international inequality indicator) reveals a higher degree of equality in Slovenia than most parts of Europe. Innovative work is being done to build capacity for reducing inequalities and building equity.

Indicators show that both alcohol and tobacco consumption are declining, but some work remains for Slovenia to fulfil its potential of ranking among the best in Europe. Further declines in these two areas would contribute to the prevention of cancer and the reduction of other lifestyle-related diseases and mortality. Improvements could also be made on issues such as deaths from falls and a comparatively lower proportion of healthy life years for older people.

Dr Claudia Stein, Director of the Division of Information, Evidence, Research and Innovation, said: “The health authorities and government of Slovenia can be justifiably proud of the improvements revealed in this report. We at WHO/Europe hope these reports will be useful for the Slovenian authorities, and will keep collaborating with the Ministry of Health to continue to put evidence at the heart of decision-making.”

The launch of the reports coincides with celebrations to mark the 20th anniversary of the Ljubljana Charter on Reforming Health Care in Europe.