How it started
- 12 December 2012:
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a historic resolution urging all countries to provide affordable, quality health services to every person without financial hardship.
This was the first time Universal Health Coverage was recognized globally. - 2017:
The UN officially designated 12 December as “International Universal Health Coverage Day.”
The day aims to raise awareness about the need for strong and equitable health systems.
Why UHC Day is important
- It reminds countries that healthcare is a fundamental human right, not a privilege.
- It encourages global leaders to invest in primary health care, insurance schemes, disease prevention, and better hospitals.
- It highlights issues like:
- lack of access to medicines
- high medical costs
- inequality in health services
Theme
Every year, WHO & UN announce a specific theme focusing on improving health systems.
(Example themes include Health for All, Leave No One Behind, etc.)
Purpose of UHC Day
- To spread awareness that no one should go bankrupt for getting treatment
- To motivate governments to build strong, fair, and resilient health systems
- To promote healthy, safe, and secure communities worldwide