COVID-19: A global health storm calling for Universal Health Coverage

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Ms. Salma Guennoun, a 22-year-old Moroccan youth advocate and medical student at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca. She is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

The analogy of a house with weak pillars getting hit by a storm mirrors our global health systems grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic—an undeniable revelation of cracks and gaps in health infrastructures, social safety nets, and deep-seated inequalities. The crisis was, in fact, a long due call for a complete overhaul in our approach to public health, resilient systems, and emergency preparedness, with an urgent plea for universal health coverage.

The 3 years long pandemic underscored that health isn’t a privilege but a fundamental human right, reaching beyond medical services to address the root causes of health disparities that universal health coverage, a true lifeline, aims to eradicate as it offers care without financial burdens in a harsh reality where half the world lacks full coverage of essential health services, and 800 million face health expenses devouring at least 10% of their budgets. And in this context, the pandemic exposed our biased focus on treatment, sidelining health promotion and prevention.

So, what is the takeaway from this global health storm? 

Firstly, a plea for the common good for health rings loud. Governments must invest in “common goods for health.” These include access to essential medicines and the equitable distribution of all health facilities, goods and services offering a quality primary health care and laying the foundation for responding not only to COVID-19 but also achieving universal health coverage.

Then, clear communication and community engagement emerge as crucial in empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. When people can access accurate and timely information, it fosters a sense of trust between communities and health authorities.

Moreover, a hard look at health financing is also imperative. Ensuring widespread public health requires addressing financial barriers to accessing healthcare, a particularly challenging task amid economic recessions. However, the experience of COVID-19 has underscored that effective epidemic control is not only beneficial for public health but also for the economy. 

Furthermore—an all-encompassing, whole-of-government approach—is essential to navigate any pandemic as it represents a global investment, urging public health systems to evolve for universal health coverage, primary health care, and social protection, while avoiding the perpetuation of existing inequalities.

Lastly, and on a positive note, COVID-19 could be considered a golden opportunity to rebuild a fairer, more sustainable world. For each country’s health sector, this means implementing policies for universal health coverage to help deal with COVID-19 and future pandemics. An all-encompassing response involving everyone, every system.

In conclusion, the lessons learned from COVID-19 are invaluable. Vulnerabilities demand more than patch-up jobs; they necessitate a fundamental shift in global health priorities. Investments in health, especially in robust national health systems, create a foundation for universal health coverage. The call is for smart investments, extending beyond the health system to embrace “common goods for health,” fortifying our collective readiness for the next storm. Countries must update national health plans, integrating preparedness and response into a comprehensive health system aligned with global frameworks for a united and effective response.

About the author
Salma Guennoun is a 22-year-old Moroccan youth advocate and medical student at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca. She is on a mission to make a positive impact. Driven by a passion for global health, Salma aims to contribute to a brighter future by combining her love for medical research with a dedication to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.