According to the World Health Organization, at least 4.5 billion people — more than half of the world’s population — lack essential health services. Financial protection has progressively deteriorated over the last 20 years, with 2 billion people experiencing financial hardship due to out-of-pocket health costs. For many, these payments lead to what is known as a ‘catastrophic cost,’ forcing individuals to forgo or delay necessary medical care. This not only prolongs illness but can also have long-term, devastating effects on health, income, and livelihoods. The consequences of this situation extend beyond individuals and families to affect governments and societies at large. As more people face health crises, nations lose valuable human capital, while long-term care and welfare support costs rise. Moreover, these avoidable health-related expenditures contribute to higher national healthcare costs, placing even greater pressure on public systems.

As elected representatives, Members of Parliament hold a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. Countries must translate their commitments to universal health coverage (UHC) into concrete laws, budgets, policies, and programmes aimed at reducing financial barriers to essential health services, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable populations. Reducing financial barriers to healthcare and protecting people from the financial hardship that often accompanies illness must be priorities. Lawmakers must drive the legislative and policy reforms needed to ensure that all citizens, especially those in vulnerable and marginalized communities, have access to affordable, quality health services.