International Day of Universal Health Coverage
The International Day of Universal Health Coverage is observed every December 12th since 2018, the year it was promoted by the World Health Organization. Universal health coverage includes not only medical treatments, but also rehabilitation, preventive services, and palliative care, all adapted to the needs of each community.
This date serves as a reminder to countries of the importance of ensuring affordable, high-quality healthcare for their citizens. It is also a reminder that millions of people around the world still fall into poverty when trying to access the care they need or cannot access it at all. According to a study by the World Health Organization, in 2023 approximately 4.6 billion people lacked access to basic health services, while 2.1 billion faced financial hardship due to healthcare costs; among them, 20.5% fell into poverty and 5.6% spent more than 40% of their household income on these expenses.
Universal health coverage is a human right recognized by the United Nations and an essential pillar for building fairer and more equitable societies. This day also invites reflection on the need to strengthen health systems, invest in public health, and train professionals capable of responding to crises such as pandemics, conflicts, and natural disasters.
Guaranteeing universal health means leaving no one behind: women, children, older adults, persons with disabilities, migrants, and rural communities must all be able to access dignified and timely services.
On this December 12th, the message is clear: governments, institutions, and citizens must work together to build a future in which health does not depend on one’s place of birth or economic resources, but is a real and accessible right for all people.
Nurse. Master student at VIU.