Denmark and UK healthcare systems compared in new research series

A new collaborative research series titled ‘Health Gap / Sundhedskløften’, produced by The Conversation UK and Denmark’s Videnskab.dk, is examining the similarities and differences between the healthcare systems of Denmark and the United Kingdom.

While both nations utilize tax-funded universal healthcare, data from the OECD indicates divergent outcomes. Denmark spends more per person after adjusting for cost of living and reports higher metrics in life expectancy, infant survival, and five-year cancer survival rates. The UK devotes a larger share of its GDP to healthcare (11.1% compared to Denmark’s 9.4%), yet per capita spending remains lower than in Denmark.

The series explores how culture, politics, and societal habits—such as cycling, alcohol consumption, and obesity—shape public health. It also addresses shared systemic pressures, including aging populations, workforce shortages, and rising mental health challenges.