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Universal health coverage is a human right that guarantees the people and communities of a country get the health services they need without getting into a financial crisis.
United Nations General Assembly declared December 12 International Universal Health Coverage Day in 2017. (Image: Shutterstock)
International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC Day) is commemorated on December 12 each year in order to raise awareness of Universal health coverage (UHC). This observance provides a common focus for governments, organisations and individuals to reaffirm their work towards making sure that no person is left behind in the basics of health care.
International Universal Health Coverage Day 2024 Theme
The theme of UHC Day 2024 is “Health: It’s on the Government!” This theme pinpoints the fact that it is about time that governments develop policies and systems that ensure accessibility, affordability and equity in healthcare access. The campaign demands further accountability from governments in health investments and policy decisions towards complete health coverage for all citizens.
Universal Health Coverage Day: History
It was first launched on December 12, 2012, when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) unanimously supported the resolution to make UHC a priority of countries as integral and necessary for the fulfilment of human rights and international development.
In 2014, it was proclaimed as UHC Day by the Universal Health Coverage Coalition. Thus, UNGA declared December 12 International Universal Health Coverage Day in 2017.
Universal Health Coverage Significance
Universal health coverage is a human right that guarantees the people and communities of a country get the health services they need without getting into a financial crisis. Some of the key benefits of UHC include:
- Equitable Access: Ensures that all people have access to necessary health care without regard to economic status.
- Financial Protection: Lowers out-of-pocket costs for health care, which prevents families from falling into poverty as a result of medical bills.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Prevents diseases from escalating to significant stages or persons from developing them in the first place.
Types of Government Health Insurance Schemes in India
India has attained enhancement of UHC through various government schemes which have intervened in offering affordable health care. Some notable schemes include:
- Ayushman Bharat: Implemented in 2018, this scheme offers up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to families in economic distress.
- National Health Mission (NHM): Set up in 2013, NHM aims to provide equitable access to healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas. It supports health infrastructure and human resource development.
- Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP): The Scheme aims at making quality medicines available at affordable prices through a network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, contributing to the reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures.
- Employees’ State Insurance (ESI): It targets workers in the organized sector, providing social security and health insurance, which includes comprehensive medical care for sickness and maternity.
