WHO calls for action to uphold right to health
- More than half of the global population lacked coverage for essential health services in 2021, according to data released by the World Health Organization.
- In 2021, an estimated 4.5 billion people were not covered by essential health services.
- Even for those who do manage to access medical care, the financial toll can be devastating.
More than half of the global population lacked coverage for essential health services in 2021, according to data released by the World Health Organization. As part of its “My health, my right” campaign for World Health Day on 7 April, the agency is pressing governments to expand care and address the political inaction and funding gaps that leave billions vulnerable to disease and financial ruin.
Billions face coverage gaps and out-of-pocket costs
In 2021, an estimated 4.5 billion people were not covered by essential health services. That shortfall leaves vulnerable populations—such as people living in poverty, older adults, and displaced individuals—exposed to health disasters.
Even for those who do manage to access medical care, the financial toll can be devastating. Approximately 2 billion people face financial hardship due to health costs, a negative trend that has worsened over the past two decades.
Funding primary care requires billions in new investments
Scaling up primary health care in low- and middle-income countries requires an estimated US$ 200–328 billion a year globally, which amounts to about 3.3% of national forecast GDP. Despite the price tag, progress remains achievable where political will exists.
Data from 42 countries across different income levels show that nations can successfully improve health service coverage while simultaneously protecting citizens from catastrophic health spending since 2000. At least 140 countries already recognize the right to health in their national constitutions, though the WHO stresses that legal recognition alone is not enough without enforcement and funding.
Realizing the right to health requires governments to pass and implement laws, invest, address discrimination and be held accountable by their populations.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General