Universal health coverage means everyone is able to use the quality health services they need without experiencing financial hardship. Out-of-pocket payments can create a financial barrier to access, resulting in unmet need, and lead to financial hardship among people using health services, including medicines.
WHO/Europe works with Member States to monitor financial protection and find ways of reducing out-of-pocket payments for the people most in need of protection.
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10 September 2025
Financing rehabilitation services in Ukraine: a situation assessment and policy options
Ukraine is continuing to reform its health-care sector in the context of the extreme pressure caused by the full-scale invasion by the Russian Federation....
5 September 2025
Can people afford to pay for health care? New evidence on financial protection in Italy: summary
This review assesses the extent to which people in Italy face financial barriers to access or experience financial hardship when they use health care....