Universal Health Coverage Day

Universal Health Coverage Day is a global observance that brings together advocates dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to quality, affordable health care. Sadly, about half the world’s population still lacks access to adequate medical services, and millions are driven into poverty each year by high health care costs.

History

Universal Health Coverage Day was established in 2017 by the United Nations General Assembly. The date, December 12, commemorates the UN’s earlier 2012 resolution calling on governments worldwide to take concrete steps to expand health care access. The issue is particularly urgent in low- and middle-income countries, where many communities face severe shortages of medical staff, medicines, and basic facilities.

Recent years have shown just how important resilient health care systems are. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses even in countries with advanced infrastructure. Hospitals were quickly overwhelmed, ventilator and supply shortages became common, and many people lacked clear, consistent information on prevention and treatment. The crisis underlined the need for universal, equitable access to health services.

Interesting Facts

• Billions of people around the globe still lack access to essential health services, with South Asia accounting for about a third of this population.
• More than 800 women die every day from preventable complications of pregnancy and childbirth—many in regions with limited medical support.
• In some countries, preventable diseases remain a major challenge. For example, malaria is still a leading cause of death among children in Zambia.
• The World Health Organization estimates that every year, hundreds of millions of people face catastrophic health expenditures, pushing families into poverty.

How to Take Part

Universal Health Coverage Day is not about parties, but about action and awareness. Health workers, NGOs, business leaders, teachers, and ordinary citizens all play a role. You can support the campaign by sharing facts, joining events, organizing educational workshops, or simply spreading the word about the importance of accessible health care. Every effort, big or small, helps build momentum for change. Check the annual UN theme and share it with your community!

When is Universal Health Coverage Day in 2025?

Universal Health Coverage Day is observed on December 12 each year.

Observations