UHC Champions

Egypt to expand Universal Health Insurance to five more governorates

The Ministry of Health and Population announced earlier this week that Egypt’s Universal Health Insurance (UHI) system will be implemented in a second set of governorates. The UHI system aims to provide universal and affordable healthcare to everyone, including anyone who does not have health insurance under the current system. It covers all medical services for beneficiaries, starting from initial medical examinations, x-rays, and medical analyses and including major surgical interventions. It is financed by premiums, with those not being able to afford them being covered by the state. Read the article. 

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Angola invests in strengthening partnerships to guarantee quality healthcare for all

According to Angola's Minister of Health, Dr Sílvia Lutucuta, the Angolan Executive is making a massive investment in infrastructure in the National Health Service, increasing the resolutive capacity at the three levels of care to respond to the population's health needs, from primary care to more specialised and complex interventions. "Despite the gains made, we still need to make more progress to increase access to healthcare for everyone and everywhere and achieve the national commitment to our people, Universal Health Coverage, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Because we know that health is one of the most powerful factors of social justice and cohesion, but also wealth creation for the desired sustainable development of our country and the well-being of our population". Read the article.

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In Nigeria, health insurance coverage rose by 40% in one year

The National Health Insurance Authority said health insurance coverage rose by 40 per cent within the year, growing from 16.7 million to 19.2 million enrollees in Nigeria. The agency said the achievement surpassed the presidential target for health insurance coverage in 2024. Speaking during the end-of-year briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, the Director-General of NHIA, Dr Kelechi Ohiri, noted that the agency plans an additional 20 per cent increase for 2025 while outlining the agency’s successes and roadmap to revolutionise healthcare delivery in Nigeria. Read the article.

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Canada’s 10-Year Commitment to Global Health and Rights: Measuring the progress

The government of Canada commits to showing you progress throughout the 10-Year Commitment to Global Health and Rights (10YC). We have increased our global health investments, particularly in SRHR. This reflects the government’s continued dedication to improving health outcomes and addressing critical gaps in the global health landscape. Under the 10YC in 2022-2023, we spent a total of $1.42 billion in global health. This meets the $1.4 billion 10YC target one year early. Read the article.

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In Pakistan, UHC service coverage index at the national level improved to 53.9 from a baseline of 40 in 2015 

On the occasion of Universal Health Coverage Day, the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (M/o NHSR&C) announced the latest UHC Service Coverage Index estimation results at national, provincial and district levels with the technical support provided by the UKs Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Evidence for Health (E4H) Programme. The UHC Service Coverage Index (SCI) has improved at the National level from a score of 40 in 2015 to 53.9 in 2023. While this is a commendable 35.8% increase since 2015, the annual rise of just 2.2% since 2022 highlights the need for accelerated efforts. Read the press release. 

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Quality, affordable health services for 1.5 billion people: A vision for a healthier, more resilient world.

The scale of the global health challenge is staggering. Global megatrends -such as decreasing investments in health systems, climate change, and aging populations- are making it harder to access quality, affordable health care. Over half of the world's population lack access to essential health services, and nearly 2 billion people face financial hardship due to the high costs of health care. Without access to essential health services, millions remain trapped in cycles of poverty. This lack of opportunity stifles human potential and economic growth. Good health means improved quality of life, increased access to education and employment, and greater resilience in the face of future crises. Read the article.

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On the Universal Health Coverage Day, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to the advancement of the global momentum towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC)  

 This year’s theme, “Health: It’s on the government,” underscores the pivotal role of governments in ensuring that no one has to choose between essential healthcare and basic necessities such as food, shelter, or education. As a government, we recognize our duty as a moral imperative to make healthcare accessible to all citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status. Any compromise on health is a compromise on the security, prosperity, and development of our nation—an area where no risks can be taken. Read the press release.

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Universal Health Coverage Day 2024: WHO urges governments to prioritize financial protection for health

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day is celebrated annually on 12 December. This year’s theme, “Health: It’s on the government”, underscores the role governments play in ensuring that no one is forced to choose between health care and necessities such as food. To mark UHC Day 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on governments worldwide to address the urgent need for financial protection to be put in place. Read the article.

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Zimbabwe commits to boost domestic health financing

Zimbabwe has taken a significant step towards strengthening its health system by committing to increase domestic financing through a health levy, a sugar tax, establishment of National Health Insurance and other initiatives. This commitment was made during a three-day national dialogue on health financing, aimed at exploring sustainable strategies to improve the country’s health sector which brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and international experts, to discuss innovative approaches to bolstering financing to the country’s health system. Read the article. 

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Kyrgyzstan controls essential medicine prices in pursuit of health for all

In response to evidence on the financial hardship caused by out-of-pocket payments for medicines, Kyrgyzstan has introduced price control regulations for a range of essential medicines, including for noncommunicable diseases, which has lowered and stabilized prices. Lower and more stable prices will help to reduce out-of-pocket payments, making medicines more affordable for people with chronic conditions, improving adherence to medicines and moving Kyrgyzstan towards UHC. Read the article.

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Public health experts make case for universal health coverage in Nigeria

Efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria face significant challenges, including systemic hurdles, slow progress, and low public awareness of financial mechanisms aimed at reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. These issues were brought to the fore during a one-day hybrid orientation for media professionals in Abuja, organized by Breakthrough ACTION Nigeria and the Local Health System Sustainability Project (LHSS), both funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The event aimed to raise awareness about UHC and the critical role of government agencies, particularly the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), in promoting equitable healthcare access. Read the article.

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India raises free health cover for citizens aged above 70 years 

Efforts India expanded a government programme late Wednesday to provide citizens aged 70 and above with annual medical insurance coverage of 500,000 rupees ($6,000) per family, fulfilling a key poll promise by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The new plan is expected to benefit an additional 60 million people, adding to Modi’s 2018 healthcare initiative which already covers more than half a billion citizens, according to a government statement. Read the article.

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In Thailand, rollout of universal health coverage to continue

Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin announced on Sunday that the government’s Universal Health Coverage “30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere” initiative will continue to expand. The pilot project, which began in 4 provinces on January 7, has now been implemented in 46 provinces, including Bangkok. The goal is to cover the remaining 31 provinces by the end of 2024. On December 25, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will preside over the launch of the nationwide expansion of the scheme, which aims to ensure access to healthcare for all Thai citizens. Read the article. 

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Strengthening the availability of evidence and fostering dialogue to stimulate investment in Kenya's health workforce

The Government of Kenya is using data and analysis to improve the availability of health workers and meet specific demands across the country. This has significantly enhanced the quality of patient care at health facilities, with more people seeking treatment. Read the article.

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Tajikistan paves the way for universal health coverage with strong primary health care

Tajikistan’s long-term investment in primary health care (PHC) has significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates and the prevalence of various diseases, showcasing a successful journey towards universal health coverage (UHC). As Tajikistan continues to navigate healthcare reform, the emphasis on primary health care remains at the core of its pursuit for a healthier future for its population. Read the article.