KATHMANDU: Universal Health Coverage Day was observed today, spotlighting the critical theme, “Citizens’ Health: The State’s Responsibility.” The observance aimed to address the pressing need for citizens to access essential healthcare services without enduring financial strain.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Ministry of Health and Population emphasized the day as a pivotal moment to invest in health services and advocate for policies that prevent citizens, particularly those economically vulnerable, from slipping into poverty due to medical expenses. The ministry affirmed its commitment to achieving the objectives of Universal Health Coverage, underscoring the importance of state responsibility in health service provision.
Data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) reveals that a staggering 4.5 billion people worldwide still lack access to basic healthcare services, while 2 billion individuals encounter financial difficulties due to healthcare costs. In Nepal, the health coverage index in
2021 stood at 54 percent, with personal expenses accounting for 54.1 percent of total health expenditures, highlighting significant challenges in achieving comprehensive healthcare coverage.
The observance of Universal Health Coverage Day serves as a crucial reminder of the global healthcare disparities and the need for robust policy interventions to ensure equitable access to healthcare services for all.