Published in Health Research Policy and Systems by BMC (part of Springer Nature), this qualitative study titled “Exploring the facilitators and barriers to achieving universal health coverage in Uganda: a qualitative study of the free healthcare policy” offers critical insights into the persistent challenges and limited successes of Uganda’s free healthcare policy. Authored by Prossy Kiddu Namyalo, Cyndirela Chadambuka, Lisa Forman, Beverley M. Essue, and Freddie Ssengooba, the article underscores the gap between policy intent and implementation outcomes over the past two decades.
Drawing on 27 interviews and 16 focus groups, the study identifies key barriers and facilitators using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. The findings highlight resource constraints, supply chain inefficiencies, and infrastructural limitations as major impediments, while also pointing to areas of opportunity. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of what is required to strengthen Uganda’s health system and meaningfully progress toward universal health coverage.