Health is part of several critical conversations of our modern times. The intersection of health across other issue areas is crucial in making healthy futures for all, whether it be the climate crisis, displacement and migration, LGBTQI+ identity, sexual health and reproductive rights, and mental health. 

Populations health and Economic growth

As per the WHO, at least half of the world's population does not receive the health services they need. Over 996 million people spend at least 10 percent of their household income on health care. 

The COVID pandemic has exposed the interdependence between the economic growth of countries and the country’s population health. There is no sustainable economic growth without protecting and promoting health and well-being and vice versa. The pandemic also highlighted the urgent need for the transformation of the healthcare system to achieve #Health for all. There are also studies that show that even before the COVID-19 pandemic, more than half a billion people were pushed into extreme poverty because of out-of-pocket health costs. 

Universal Health Coverage Day History

On 12 December 2012, the United Nations unanimously endorses a historic resolution urging all countries to accelerate progress toward UHC as an essential priority for international development. And later in 2017, the UN officially designated 12 December as International Universal Health Coverage Day. 

Universal Health Coverage Day Theme

The theme of Universal Health Coverage Day 2022 is “Build the world we want – A healthy future for all” which means all people should get access to quality health services without financial hardship. It calls for strong, equitable health systems that leave no one behind. It is observed to provide a world-class healthcare system for all. Universal health coverage lifts people out of poverty, promotes the well-being of families and communities, protects against public health crises, and moves us toward #HealthForAll. #HealthForAll is key to coping with the interlocking health, humanitarian, and climate crises our world is facing.

Universal Health Coverage has been included in the new Sustainable Developments Goals for 2015-2030.

Youth Engagement

Building equitable health systems requires young minds to build the architects of the future. Gen Z makes up a significant portion of the world’s population. We have to ensure that we include them in our discussions, listen to their young ideas and see the future of health systems from their perspective as well. Incorporating youth in building equitable health systems can be an asset.  

Building strong healthcare systems is an investment in the future. Now is the time to create a world where health coverage reaches everyone, where a standard exists to see that no one faces financial hardship from seeking the care they need at any point in their lives.

The Universal Health Coverage movement wants to create a system where everyone can have a healthy future.