Universal Health Coverage Day 2023: Date, Theme And History

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 12-12-2023

Universal Health Coverage Day 2023: Date, Theme And History

Important Day 3 min read

International Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day is observed every year on 12th December. It emphasises the need for a health care system that provides good health facilities to all. The year 2023 marks the sixth anniversary of the International Universal Health Coverage Day.

Theme for Universal Health Coverage Day 2023:

The theme of ‘Universal Health Coverage Day for the year 2023’ – is “Health for All: Time for Action”.
This theme calls for specific actions that focus on the resilience of health systems.

History of Universal Health Coverage Day 2023:

The United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution on 12 December 2012 to accelerate progress towards UHC. It ensured that everyone, everywhere, should have access to quality, affordable health care.
On 12 December 2017, the United Nations General Assembly, by resolution, declared 12 December as International UHC Day.

Objectives of Universal Health Coverage Day:

International UHC Day aims to raise awareness with stakeholder partners about the need for strong and resilient health systems and UHC.
A commitment was made to help move the world closer to universal health coverage by 2030.
UHC means that everyone, everywhere, should have access to essential health services without risk of financial hardship.

Significance of Universal Health Coverage Day:

Universal health coverage enables all people to access the full range of quality health services, regardless of financial constraints.
It encompasses vital health services, spanning prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
This is embedded in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG target 3.8). It covers the full range of essential health services, including health promotion, prevention and treatment.

Three dimensions of universal health coverage:

Universal health coverage has the following three dimensions:
- Population coverage (who receives services linked to the equity)
- Service coverage (what health services are available)
- Financial security (ensuring that health services do not cause financial hardship)
Universal health coverage is based on the principles of equality, non-discrimination and the right to health.
Under UHC, it is ensured that all basic health facilities are provided to the most vulnerable people of the society.