Makueni County Universal Health Care Policy 2022

Abstract

Kenya’s adoption of the universal health coverage stems from the 58th World Health Assembly of 2005, which urged member countries to aim at providing universally accessible health care to all members of the population based on the principles of equity and solidarity. Universal health care means that all people have access to promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative health services they need, of sufficient quality to be effective, while also ensuring that the use of these services does not expose the user to financial hardship. It addresses three interrelated objectives: equitable access to health services, quality health services and protection against financial risk (World Health Report, 2010). Kenya is also committed to achieving ‘Health for All’ as part of the Declaration of Alma Ata underpinning the importance of primary healthcare. Universal health coverage is a means to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), one (No poverty) and three (Good health and well-being). In line with Africa Agenda 2063, the African Union encourages member states to prioritize social protection policies including health care.