Addressing Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health at the United Nations
The below statement was shared by Jed Meline, Project HOPE’s Director of Policy and Advocacy, at the UN Multi-stakeholder Hearing on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being in New York on May 2, 2025.
As we confront the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health, central to success is strengthening the health and care workforce. This is not just a health issue — it is key to economic growth, political stability, and global health security for every nation. NCDs now account for approximately 75% of all deaths worldwide, hence our actions must be bold and strategic. To accelerate progress on NCDs and mental health, we must grow the health workforce, break down silos, foster sustainable financing, and hold ourselves accountable.
Project HOPE is a health and humanitarian non-profit active in 25 countries. We work to address the growing risks of NCDs globally by training health care workers and implementing programs targeted to the communities they serve. Since 1998, Project HOPE has trained more than 235,000 healthcare workers to better prevent and manage NCDs. Through these and other activities, Project HOPE has reached more than 4.5 million people who either have or are at risk of NCDs.
First, we must grow the health workforce to meet the increasing demands of NCDs and mental health while improving primary health care overall. With an estimated global shortage of 11 million health workers, this must be a top priority. National health workforce plans and policies must be based on the real health needs of populations — not outdated service models or staffing ratios.
Second, we must break down silos in training and practice. Too many health workers are entering the field without adequate preparation to prevent and manage chronic conditions. Member States must embed NCD competencies — including mental health and neurological care — into all stages of health personnel education. Mental health must be fully recognized as part of the NCD agenda, not as an afterthought. A truly resilient health workforce is one that is equipped and empowered to respond to the full spectrum of patient needs.
Third, sustainable financing is non-negotiable. Primary care and health worker development remain grossly underfunded both domestically and by international donors. Governments need to identify national fiscal opportunities, reduce reliance on external donors, and ensure funding is protected. Alternative funding approaches must not just be explored but must be embraced.
We also need to hold ourselves accountable. What is measured gets done. Member States must strengthen health workforce data systems, implement National Health Workforce Accounts, and embed civil society into transparent monitoring frameworks. Without reliable data and public accountability, commitments risk becoming mere declarations.
Health workers must also have decent pay, safe and fair working conditions, and opportunities for career growth. Mental health support for healthcare personnel must be a standard — not a luxury —especially after what the global workforce has endured during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We know the solutions. Now, we must act. The strength of our healthcare workforce is the foundation of resilient health systems and the linchpin to progress with NCDs, mental health, and primary health overall.
