High level expert group for universal health coverage

Description

Universal health coverage (UHC) in India aims to ensure equitable access to affordable, accountable and high-quality health services for all citizens, regardless of income, social status, gender, caste or religion. It encompasses promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative care, along with public health services addressing the broader determinants of health, with the State acting as the primary guarantor. UHC integrates three key dimensions: comprehensive healthcare access, inclusive population coverage and financial protection to prevent economic hardship. Its foundation lies in universal entitlement to health security and the State’s responsibility to ensure essential determinants such as nutrition, safe water, sanitation, education and decent living conditions. Guided by principles such as universality, equity, non-discrimination, quality care, financial protection, accountability and community participation, UHC seeks to establish health as a fundamental human right. The approach emphasises addressing social determinants of health—including poverty, gender inequality, housing, employment and environmental conditions—while recognising the importance of gender-sensitive policies that expand access for women and strengthen their role in healthcare provision. A successful UHC system requires social solidarity, cross-subsidisation and a flexible institutional framework that accounts for regional diversity, demographic transitions and evolving health needs. Drawing from global experiences, the Indian model envisions a hybrid system tailored to domestic conditions, combining public provisioning with strategic partnerships to achieve sustainable and inclusive health outcomes.

Publication Date

1-1-2011

Publisher

Planning Commission of India

Keywords

Health services, Planning commission, Universal health coverage

Source Link URL

https://niti.gov.in/planningcommission.gov.in/docs/reports/genrep/rep_uhc0812.pdf

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