International Universal Health Coverage Day
Universal health coverage (UHC) is a fundamental right, yet access to healthcare remains influenced by sex, gender, and various social determinants. Medical science increasingly acknowledges the importance of including women and addressing how factors such as age, ethnicity, geography, and sexual orientation intersect to create barriers to health. An intersectional approach is essential to dismantle these barriers and ensure equitable healthcare systems that leave no one behind.
The International Day of Universal Health Coverage is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and, more importantly, the challenges that remain in ensuring access to essential health services without financial hardship. While UHC is a cornerstone of human rights, achieving it faces significant hurdles, particularly for women and other vulnerable groups.
Despite advancements, women continue to face a healthcare system that has historically overlooked their needs. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, fibroids, cardiovascular diseases, and undiagnosed cancers are some of the most common health issues women encounter. Yet these conditions are frequently underestimated, misdiagnosed, or under-researched, leaving many women without the care they need.
Additionally, women spend 25% more time in “poor health” compared to men. This health gap has profound implications not just for women, but for societies as a whole. Addressing these disparities could transform the lives of millions, improving the well-being of communities and boosting economies. Research estimates that closing the women’s health gap could deliver an annual $1 trillion boost to the global economy by 2040.
Investing in women’s health is not only a matter of justice but a critical strategy for sustainable development. As we build more equitable healthcare systems, integrating a gender perspective is essential to recognize and address the specific needs of women and other marginalized groups. Achieving universal health coverage requires more than access—it demands inclusivity, equality, and a commitment to leaving no one behind.
Associate Professor at University of Granada