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International Universal Health Coverage Day

  • Posted By
    10Pointer
  • Categories
    World Affairs
  • Published
    14th Dec, 2021

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

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

Right to Health

  • Articles 39, 41, 42 and 47 in the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) contain provisions regarding Health.
  • Article 21 provides for the right to life and personal liberty and is a fundamental right.

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