Universal health coverage
Universal Health Coverage
Universal Health Coverage (UHC, /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːrsəl ˈhɛlθ ˈkʌvərɪdʒ/) is a healthcare system that provides health care and financial protection to all residents of a particular country or region. It is organized around providing a specified package of benefits to all members of a society with the end goal of providing financial risk protection, improved access to health services, and improved health outcomes.
Etymology
The term "Universal Health Coverage" is derived from the English words "universal" (meaning applicable or common to all), "health" (meaning the state of being free from illness or injury), and "coverage" (meaning the extent to which something deals with or applies to something else). The term was first used in the late 20th century to describe a goal of health policy.
Related Terms
- Healthcare system: A group of health care providers who give health care services to people in an organized, coordinated way.
- Health outcomes: The changes in health that result from measures or interventions.
- Financial risk protection: Protection against the financial risks associated with medical care, especially for poor households.
- Health services: Services provided to individuals or communities by health professionals for the purpose of promoting, maintaining, monitoring, or restoring health.
Implementation
Universal Health Coverage is implemented by ensuring that health services are equitable, that is, everyone who needs services should get them, not only those who can pay for them. The services should be of good quality and comprehensive, including health promotion, prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. Finally, the cost of using these services should not put people at risk of financial harm.
Challenges
Implementing Universal Health Coverage is a complex process that involves addressing many challenges. These include the need for more health workers, the need for more clinics and hospitals in rural and remote areas, the need for a reliable supply of medicines, and the need for health care that is people-centered and that respects the dignity and human rights of all.
See Also
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