Improving service access and quality

Equity of access to health services is central to universal health coverage, particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalised people in our societies. Too many cannot access the care they need due to economic, geographic, epidemiological or cultural barriers.

WHO works with countries to identify these barriers and to provide evidence-based solutions to progressively expand access, while ensuring the highest possible quality of care. 

Strong health systems are integrated. They provide effective access to primary health care, as well as to timely secondary and tertiary care. Health promotion and preventive services can help reduce the burden of disease, while safe and effective surgery saves lives. Service access and quality for older populations is also a growing concern.