Private sector's critical role in achieving universal health coverage

On Universal Health Coverage Day, SHOPS Plus reflected on the importance of achieving health care for all. Recognizing that the private sector plays a critical role, the project highlights an innovative micro-insurance platform and analysis of health financing mechanisms that expand access to family planning. 

Mobile technology is one of the innovative approaches the private sector uses to increase coverage in developing countries. A mobile-based health insurance, Jamii provides health care coverage to low income individuals in Tanzania through a partnership with Vodacom, Jubilee Insurance and Edgepoint Digital. This SMS-based, affordable insurance is improving the accessibility of providers and the efficiency of services. Read more.

Mbogo Bunyi, senior private sector advisor for SHOPS Plus, talks about Jamii’s contribution to universal health coverage in Tanzania. “We want as many people as possible accessing the healthcare that they need at the time that they need it," he says. Watch the video.

While there are many pathways toward UHC, the pathway chosen by each country varies. All countries face challenges regarding resource mobilization, the political environment, and efficient use of resources, equity, and access. This leads to making tough trade-offs between population coverage, service coverage, and financial protection. Read more.

These activities and others help our partners find the pathway that works best for their country and ensure access to health services for all.  

#UHCDay #HealthForAll

Read more about SHOPS Plus work in universal health coverage.