Final Report of the Chatham House Commission on universal health coverage. Crises and shocks can serve as catalysts for driving universal health coverage reforms. There is a need for strategic investments and efficient resource management to achieve equitable and sustainable healthcare systems globally.
The Final Report on the work of the Chatham House Commission for Universal Health, titled “Driving Universal Health Reforms through Crises and Shocks,” examines the global pursuit of universal health coverage (UHC) amidst ongoing crises and shocks. Established in 2022, the Commission explores how various global challenges, from disease outbreaks to financial instability and climate impacts, have shaped efforts towards achieving UHC by 2030, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 3.8. Highlighting examples where crises have catalysed progress, the report underscores the potential of UHC reforms to enhance health financing and social protection systems worldwide. Emphasising the importance of strategic investments, such as dedicating an additional 1% of GDP to primary healthcare, the report advocates for efficient resource pooling to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability. It offers recommendations for leaders aiming to initiate or expand UHC reforms, focussing on innovative financing mechanisms and equitable healthcare delivery models as key strategies for sustainable health system advancement.