International Universal Health Coverage Day: Cameroon counts progress despite health care access challenges
By Stephen TADAHA
Over 3,5 million Cameroonians have been enrolled in the Universal Health Coverage program implemented by the Government of Cameroon in its 20 months of existence.
The revelation was made by the Minister of Public Health, Dr Manaouda Malachie on Thursday December 12, 2024 in a Press conference in Yaoundé to commemorate the 11th International Day of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Taking stock of the progress made since the launch of phase 1 of the program on April 12, 2023 in Manjou, East Region of Cameroon, the Public Health Boss revealed that 3,524,687 people have been enrolled in the program so far while 5,044,347 children got vaccinated against poliomyelitis; 1,080,424 free pediatric consultations have been carried out and 10,194 cesareans covered at 95%.
Placed under the theme “Health: It’s on the government” the celebration in Cameroon highlighted the impact of this major reform on access to essential health care and government’s efforts to achieve health for all.
The UHC program primarily targets vulnerable groups, including children under 5 years old, pregnant women and people with specific pathologies. Furthermore, treatment for diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis remains completely free, saving thousands of lives.
During the Press conference, Minister Manaouda also announced measures to expand the service to soon include the treatment for type 1 diabetes and viral hepatitis.
The UHC aims to cover around 6 million people, by strengthening the national health strategy to guarantee equitable and universal access to care by 2035. This initiative is part of the global objectives defined by the WHO, aiming to ensure that every individual, wherever they live, can access the health services they need without experiencing financial constraints. Regionally, Cameroon stands out for its inclusive model, inspiring other African countries to adopt similar reforms.
Access to quality Health Care at affordable prices in Cameroon in recent time, has remained a major challenge for Cameroonians. According to the United States Agency for International Development, USAID, approximately 70% of health services in the Country are funded out-of-pocket by patients, creating significant barriers to access, particularly for marginalized communities.
