International Universal Health Coverage Day

Context

International Universal Health Coverage Day is a United Nations’ recognized international day celebrated every year on December 12.

• International Universal Health Coverage Day Aims to raise awareness of the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage with multi-stakeholder partners.

Background

• On 12 December 2012, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution urging countries to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage (UHC) – the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to quality, affordable health care – as an essential priority for international development. 
• On 12 December 2017, the United Nations proclaimed 12 December as International Universal Health Coverage Day.

Theme

• This year's theme of International Universal Health Coverage Day is “Leave No One’s Health Behind: Invest in health systems for all.”
• The theme for 2020 is "Health for all - Protect everyone".

Universal Health Coverage

• Universal Health Coverage entails ensuring all people have access to quality healthcare services – including prevention, treatment, promotion, rehabilitation, and palliation – without incurring financial constraints.
• India is committed to achieving UHC for all its citizens by 2030, which is fundamental to achieving the other Sustainable Development Goals.
• However, some challenges exists in the sector:

• • Lack of infrastructure
  • Shortage of efficient and trained manpower
  • Unmanageable patient-load
  • High out-of-pocket expenditure remains a stress factor
  • Lack of awareness about health schemes and initiatives