On the occasion of the International Day for Worldwide Health Coverage, and while the Global Meeting of the Partnership for universal Health Coverage takes place until 13 December at the Palais des Congrès in Lyon, we take stock of the progress made at global level to enable everyone the individual to access the health services they need, where and when they need them, without exposing themselves to financial difficulties. Set by the Lasting Growth Goals (SDGs) in 2015, universal health coverage is expected to become a reality by 2030.However, as of 2021, approximately 4.5 billion peopel were not fully covered by essential health services.
In 2021, approximately 4.5 billion people were not fully covered by essential health services.
How can we implement a healthcare offer that corresponds to the real needs of the populations? How can we ensure that treatment does not push families into poverty?
- Meres MabialaDirector General of Planning, Evaluation and Partnerships at the Ministry of Health Gabon
“In Gabon, the National Health Insurance Fund has existed as 2007. It is an instrument that has partly solved the problem of access to financing for health services. But I say partially because the tool exists, but the challenges are still many. »
Mérès Mabiala, Director General of Planning, Evaluation and Partnerships at the Ministry of Health of Gabon. ©RFI/tiffanie Menta
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interview with Meres Mabiala on Universal health Coverage: challenges and Solutions
By Time.news Editor
Q: Welcome, Meres Mabiala. As the Director General of Planning, Evaluation, and Partnerships at the Ministry of health in Gabon, could you share your insights on the current status of universal health coverage (UHC) globally, especially considering the International Day for Worldwide Health Coverage?
Meres Mabiala: Thank you for having me. The push towards universal health coverage is indeed a pressing global initiative as declared by the Enduring Progress Goals in 2015. However,the reality is stark; as of 2021,around 4.5 billion people were still not fully covered by essential health services. This gap is not just a statistic; it represents real lives and families who struggle to access necessary care without facing financial hardship. The ongoing Global Meeting for Universal Health Coverage in Lyon serves as an critically important platform to highlight these challenges and explore viable solutions.
Q: What are some of the key issues that have emerged in the journey towards achieving UHC?
Meres Mabiala: There are multiple challenges we face. one of the significant issues is the financing of healthcare services. While instruments like the National Health Insurance Fund, established in Gabon in 2007, have made strides in addressing some accessibility issues, they have not fully resolved the overarching concerns. Many populations still cannot afford treatment, leading to financial strain. This highlights the need for better alignment of healthcare resources with the actual needs of the population.
Q: Can you elaborate on the role of the National Health Insurance Fund in Gabon and its impact on healthcare accessibility?
Meres Mabiala: Certainly. The National Health Insurance Fund has been a pivotal step towards increasing health service access in Gabon. It provides financial support for various medical services, which is crucial for many families. However, we must recognize that while it’s a step in the right direction, challenges remain in terms of coverage, the quality of services provided, and equitable access, notably in rural areas.
Q: In your opinion, what practical steps can be taken to ensure that treatment does not push families into poverty?
Meres Mabiala: Implementing a comprehensive policy that focuses on equitable access to quality healthcare is vital. This involves improving health financing models that reduce out-of-pocket expenses for families. Additionally, strengthening primary healthcare systems and ensuring community involvement in policy-making can lead to more tailored healthcare solutions. Moreover, implementing preventive healthcare programs can also significantly reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system, which frequently enough contributes to financial distress for families.
Q: With the target of achieving UHC by 2030, what advice would you give to other countries still struggling to provide essential health services?
Meres Mabiala: my advice would be to prioritize clear communication and collaboration across various sectors. Engaging with community leaders to better understand local needs can drive effective health interventions. Furthermore, leveraging technology to streamline service delivery and improve access to facts is crucial. Lastly, focusing on sustainable financing models that protect against economic shocks can create a more resilient healthcare system.
Q: as we move towards the 2030 target, what is your vision for universal health coverage?
Meres Mabiala: my vision is a future where every individual, nonetheless of their socioeconomic status, can access quality health services without financial burden. Achieving this will require a concerted effort from governments, private sectors, and the global community. The upcoming discussions at the Global Meeting for Universal Health coverage are essential for sharing knowledge and innovative strategies that can help us all move forward towards this goal.
Q: Thank you, Meres Mabiala, for your valuable insights and perspective on such an important issue.
Meres Mabiala: Thank you for the possibility to discuss these critical topics.I hope our dialog encourages more proactive steps towards achieving universal health coverage for all.
For more information on universal health coverage and related discussions, visit Time.news.