U.N. Health Agency Urges Countries To ‘Adjust’ And Strengthen Their Health Care Financing

The United Nations on Monday offered all nations, rich and poor, some "practical guidance" on financing health care. The tips include "efficient tax collection" and having richer countries donate a percentage of their gross domestic product to a "development assistance" fund.

“No one in need of health care should have to risk financial ruin as a result," said Dr. Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO. “We encourage every country to act on this (report) and do at least one thing to improve health financing and increase health coverage over the coming year.”

The report, which relies on “evidence from all over the world,” advises countries how to “adjust” their health care financing so more people, especially those in low- and middle-income countries, get the health care they need.

In the Nov. 22 news release announcing its World Health Report, WHO never mentions the United States by name, but there is an indirect reference:  According to WHO, “In countries that depend heavily on people paying directly for services at the point of delivery, health bills push 100 million people into poverty each year.” That describes the U.S. health delivery system, pre-Obamacare.

WHO’s report specifically highlights three key areas where “change can happen,” including raising more money for health; raising money more fairly; and spending it more efficiently.     

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