Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Meaning, Dimensions and Nepal's Progress
In short: Universal health coverage means everyone can use the quality health services they need without financial hardship. It is measured by service coverage and by the share of people facing catastrophic health spending.
The UHC cube
WHO's 2010 World Health Report pictured UHC as a cube with three dimensions: who is covered (population), which services are covered, and what proportion of costs is covered. Countries expand along all three over time.
Measuring UHC
SDG indicator 3.8.1 is a service coverage index based on tracer services such as family planning, immunisation, TB treatment and hypertension care. Indicator 3.8.2 measures households spending more than 10% or 25% of their budget on health.
Nepal's path
Nepal provides free basic health services, free maternity care with transport incentives through the Aama programme, and a national health insurance programme under the Health Insurance Act 2074. Out-of-pocket payments still make up a large share of total health spending, so financial protection remains a key challenge.
Key takeaways
- UHC = access to needed services without financial hardship.
- Three dimensions: population, services, cost.
- High out-of-pocket spending is Nepal's main UHC gap.
Common questions
When is UHC Day?
12 December each year.
Does UHC mean everything is free?
No. It means essential services are affordable and people are protected from financial ruin.
References
Educational content by PHC-Nepal. It does not replace advice from a qualified health professional.