
Universal Health Coverage
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) means that all individuals and communities receive the health services they need without suffering financial hardship. It includes the full spectrum of essential, quality health services which encompasses health promotion, prevention, treatment, rehabilitative and palliative care. It is to be noted that UHC does not mean free coverage for all possible health interventions as providing all services free of charge will jeopardize sustainability; and it is more than ensuring a minimum package of health services as a progressive expansion of coverage of health services and financial protection will need to take place as more resources become available. Primary Health Care (PHC), both a philosophy of health care and an approach to providing health services, is considered the most efficient and cost-effective way to achieve UHC. In addition to spelling out that the people of the country receive at least the basic minimum health services that are essential for their good health and care, PHC embraces principles of social equity, self-reliance, intersectoral coordination and community participation in planning and implementation of programs. Achieving UHC applying PHC concepts will be the guiding principles of the health care strategicย plan.
Last Updated: 21 May 2021