Abstract
BACKGROUND: In the contemporary landscape characterized by digital transformation and sustainable economic development, understanding the dynamics of health status is critically significant. This study investigates the complex relationship among healthcare expenditure, digital transformation, health status, and well-being within the European Union (EU) framework. METHODS: Through structural equation modeling, the research examines the multidimensional interplay among these variables, while cluster analysis supports identifying distinct patterns within the data. The paper aims to provide a broad understanding of the impact of digital transformation and healthcare expenditure on health status and well-being at the EU level. RESULTS: The findings unveil nuanced linkages among healthcare expenditure, digital transformation, health status, and well-being across distinct clusters of EU countries. While certain countries exhibit synergistic advancements resulting in enhanced healthcare outcomes, others confront challenges stemming from disparities in digital infrastructure, healthcare expenditure allocation, and health status. CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the imperative of fostering synergies between digital transformation and healthcare expenditure to enhance health status within the EU. Identifying pivotal determinants and barriers enables policymakers to formulate targeted strategies to mitigate disparities and foster inclusive growth to promote equitable healthcare access and advance overall societal well-being.