International Universal Health Coverage Day

International Universal Health Coverage Day is observed globally to advocate for the necessity of accessible, quality, and affordable health services to all individuals regardless of their socio-economic status. By promoting universal health coverage (UHC), this day underlines the importance of physical and mental health in achieving overall wellbeing and development of society. The observance emphasizes that achieving good health and wellbeing for all is integral to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encourages governments, individuals, and organizations to work towards the realization of these objectives.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed Universal Health Coverage Day in 2012 after a push from the Rockefeller Foundation and global health advocates. In India, Universal Health Coverage Day carries an even greater significance considering the country's vast population, varied socio-economic conditions, and the considerable burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. The observance emphasizes the importance of health reforms that are focused on improving accessibility, availability, quality, and affordability of health services for every citizen. It reiterates the need for strengthening both healthcare infrastructure and human resources in the health sector.

International Universal Health Coverage Day is observed in India with various activities that include awareness campaigns, conferences, workshops, discussions and media interactions. It involves key stakeholders such as policymakers, health practitioners, non-profit organizations, community leaders and the general population. This is aimed at both creating awareness about UHC and discussing strategies to achieve it. In harmony with the global community, India observes International Universal Health Coverage Day on December 12th. The day serves as a reminder and a call to action for the government and all stakeholders to make health for all a reality.