How can health systems advance economic and fiscal objectives?

The health system is one of the most important contributors to population health that lies within the direct control of policymakers. Yet when seeking additional funding for their health systems policymakers are often met with scepticism by those in charge of the finances. In this article we explore the evidence that health systems can advance economic and fiscal objectives, including good stewardship of public resources, macroeconomic growth, societal well-being and fiscal sustainability. We argue that a better understanding of the linkages between health systems and economic and fiscal outcomes may be useful when advocating for adequate, stable funding for health systems.