The Dire State of Global Health Access
Over 4.5 billion people worldwide lack access to essential health services, according to a stark warning from the United Nations health agency. Furthermore, this glaring deficit underscores the pressing need for stronger political commitment and increased government investment in healthcare.
Additionally, the report, a joint effort by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Bank, reveals that a staggering two billion people face severe financial hardships when they must pay out-of-pocket for necessary medical treatment.
A Threat to Stability and Development Goals
“The fact that so many people cannot benefit from affordable, quality, essential health services not only puts their own health at risk, it also puts the stability of communities, societies, and economies at risk,” emphasized Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
This crisis poses a major threat to the global health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which ambitiously aim to achieve universal health coverage for all by 2030.
Slow Progress and Catastrophic Health Spending
According to the report, over the past two decades, fewer than one-third of countries globally have improved health service coverage while reducing “catastrophic” levels of out-of-pocket health spending, which often exceed 25 percent of household income. To regain momentum toward these ambitious goals, the report calls for substantial investments in the public sector by governments and development partners.
A Call for Radical Reorientation
To address this critical issue, the report emphasizes the need for a “radical reorientation” of health systems, with a primary focus on prioritizing primary healthcare, enhancing equity, and providing financial protection.
It underscores the necessity for reform to combat the devastating impact of COVID-19 on health systems and the global healthcare workforce, as well as to address the challenges posed by economic downturns, climate change, and shifting political priorities.
Escaping Poverty Through Universal Health Coverage
Mamta Murthi, Vice President for Human Development at the World Bank, highlighted the significance of achieving universal health coverage in alleviating poverty. She noted,
“We know that achieving universal health coverage is a critical step in helping people escape and stay out of poverty, yet there continues to be increased financial hardship, especially for the poorest and most vulnerable people.”
A Global Pledge for Universal Health Coverage
The report’s release precedes a UN General Assembly high-level meeting, during which world leaders are expected to renew their commitment to making universal health coverage a reality for all. This significant event underscores the pressing urgency of addressing the global health crisis and ensuring access to essential healthcare services for billions of people worldwide.
Sources: THX News & United Nations.
