Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day 2024: History, Significance, and Global Progress
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in News | UHC Day is observed annually on December 12 to advocate for universal access to quality health services without financial hardship. |
| History | - December 12, 2012: UN adopted a resolution urging nations to accelerate UHC progress. - December 12, 2017: UN officially declared December 12 as International UHC Day through resolution 72/138. |
| Key Challenges | - Financial Protection: - 2 billion people face financial hardship due to healthcare costs. - 1.3 billion people are pushed into poverty by health expenditures. - Access to Health Services: - Over half the global population lacks basic health services. - 4.5 billion people lack essential health services. |
| Significance of UHC | - Cornerstone for sustainable development. - Contributes to resilient, productive, peaceful, and prosperous communities. |
| WHO's Call to Action | - Increase public health investments. - Implement financial protection for vulnerable populations. - Focus on achieving SDG targets for health by 2030. |
| India's Commitment | - Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY): - ₹5 lakh free health insurance per family. - Special provisions for senior citizens aged 70+. - Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): - 150,000 centers for primary healthcare services and preventive care. - Increased Public Investment: - Emphasis on reducing out-of-pocket expenditures and equitable access to healthcare. |