The average per capita government spending on health in all country income groups fell in 2022 from 2021 after a surge in the early pandemic year, says the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO in its report, titled Global Spending on Health: Emerging from the Pandemic, highlights this decline across all income groups in 2022. This dip follows increased spending during the early pandemic years.
The findings were launched in line with Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day on December 12. They underscore the critical need for financial protection in healthcare access.
GOVERNMENT HEALTH SPENDING: THE BACKBONE OF UHC
Government investment in health remains a cornerstone of achieving Universal Health Coverage. Nonetheless, recent declines in spending jeopardize progress.
Now, 4.5 billion people lack access to basic health services. Additionally, 2 billion face financial hardship due to health costs.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the consequences: “Using health services is driving more people into financial hardship or poverty. Health for all means no one suffers for care.”
WHO PAYS FOR HEALTHCARE? THE BURDEN OF OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS
Out-of-pocket payments remain the primary source of health financing in many countries, perpetuating cycles of poverty and vulnerability. In 30 low- and lower-middle-income countries, out-of-pocket expenses dominate health spending. In 20 of these nations, such payments account for over half of total health expenditures. Even wealthier nations face significant issues. In over a third of high-income countries, more than 20% of health spending comes directly from patients. This situation disproportionately affects poorer households.
EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR FINANCIAL PROTECTION
WHO calls on global leaders to make Universal Health Coverage a national priority by 2030.
Key Recommendations
- Remove User Charges: Remove fees for low-income individuals and those with chronic conditions.
- Legislation: Enact laws to shield people from impoverishing health costs.
- Public Funding: Create robust health financing mechanisms to cover entire populations.
A primary health care approach should make sure access to essential services like prevention, treatment, and palliative care.
LESSONS FROM THE PANDEMIC: A BLUEPRINT FOR RESILIENCE
The COVID-19 pandemic showcased the value of government health budgets in crisis management. During 2020–2022, public funding allowed health systems to act quickly, saving lives through population-based interventions. Post-pandemic, governments must balance strengthening health systems for future threats with addressing current healthcare needs.
25 YEARS OF TRACKING GLOBAL HEALTH SPENDING
For 25 years, WHO’s Health Expenditure Tracking Programme has been pivotal in monitoring global health spending trends. Since 2000, this database has provided insights into health spending patterns across more than 190 countries. Since 2017, the Global Health Expenditure Report has driven transparency, accountability, and informed policymaking worldwide.
UHC DAY 2024: A PLATFORM FOR PROGRESS
Universal Health Coverage Day serves as a milestone for evaluating and advancing UHC goals from December 11–13, over 125 countries gathered in Lyon, France. They addressed challenges, set priorities, and planned for the next phase of the UHC Partnership (2025–2027). WHO’s flagship initiative unites global partners to support countries in achieving UHC. Funders include the European Union, Belgium, Canada, Japan, and the UK, among others.
THE PATH FORWARD: HEALTH FOR ALL BY 2030
The WHO’s report and UHC Day activities reinforce the need for immediate action. Governments must focus on health financing to ensure affordable, fair care for all. Investment in primary health care systems and financial protection mechanisms is non-negotiable. Health for all is not just a goal—it is a necessity. WHO’s efforts aim to create resilient systems where everyone can access care without financial hardship.
The 2024 Global Health Expenditure Report is a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. With declining health investments and rising healthcare inequities, global solidarity is vital. As we move toward 2030, the world must prioritize Universal Health Coverage. We need to ensure no one is left behind in the quest for health for all.
