PD 10 - Universal Health Coverage

SDG 3.8 on UHC envisions that by 2030 all people can use the health services they need, of sufficient quality to be effective, and without facing financial hardship. Despite strong international support for UHC, country level financing and implementation remains challenging. Multi-sectoral approaches involving the whole of government and society are key to generate political will for investment in UHC and drive appropriate reforms.

Ensuring equitable access to universal health coverage has many dimensions. New models are emerging around the world which ensure inclusiveness by strengthening social participation. These include new mechanisms like people’s health assemblies and other forms of participation that ensure citizens and patients voices in the setting of priorities. The recognition of social participation is also reflected in the strong engagement of civil society in the UHC 2030 multistakeholder platform. Strengthening accountability and advocacy are central to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage.

The role for the private sector in achieving universal health coverage (UHC) remains subject to much debate. One reason stems from the multiple and complex processes implicated in achieving UHC. While the overarching aim of UHC is to ensure that everyone has access to affordable and quality health products and services regardless of background, in practice this requires strengthening health financing for and service provision of, an agreed package of basic health services across a broad population. Yet there remains no blueprint for how this might be accomplished.