Health Costs Skyrocket: Are We Sick of It?

Universal Health Coverage Day, observed on December 12, brought attention to the growing burden of unaffordable health costs. This year's theme critically questioned the adequacy of current health systems. While international declarations emphasize the right to health, many countries, including India, have prioritized financial protection through public health insurance schemes.

These insurance-focused reforms often neglect comprehensive primary healthcare, leading to increased out-of-pocket expenditures for patients. Evidence suggests that weak public health systems and underfinancing of primary care compel greater reliance on expensive private healthcare. This trend contributes significantly to household debt.

Strengthening primary and secondary care, alongside a commitment to public spending, is crucial. Countries that have successfully implemented UHC through insurance have also invested in robust public health infrastructures. For India, a renewed focus on comprehensive primary healthcare and social determinants of health is imperative to achieve true universal healthcare.