Improving quality of care through water, sanitation and hygiene services: highlights and progress in the pan-European region

Overview

Health-care facilities require adequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), waste management and environmental cleaning services to deliver high-quality, equitable and resilient care. These services are essential for infection prevention and control, reducing antimicrobial resistance and protecting the health, safety and dignity of patients and health-care workers. This report reviews the status of WASH services across the pan-European region, drawing on national assessments, surveys and global monitoring data. It aims to inform and inspire health-care professionals, policy-makers and partners to accelerate progress towards universal access to safe and sustainable WASH services in health-care facilities. Many countries have made progress, including in strengthening national standards, undertaking baseline assessments and adopting risk-based approaches. Improvements in surveillance, integration of WASH into health strategies and cross-sectoral coordination are also emerging. However, disparities in service coverage persist – particularly in rural and primary care settings, alongside gaps in infrastructure, governance and financing. This report synthesizes key lessons and actionable areas for the short- and long-term to support countries in accelerating progress and advancing the implementation of the multiple global and regional health agendas which put WASH services at the core, contributing to improved health outcomes and preparedness for future emergencies.