Phnom Penh (FN), May 23 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the official launch of the "Roadmap for Global Health Coverage in Cambodia 2024-2035" sets out a clear plan to ensure that no one is left behind in addressing health issues.
The premier spoke on Thursday (May 23) at the launching of “Roadmap for Global Health Coverage in Cambodia 2024-2035” at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.
"In this regard, the roadmap for 2024-2035 toward obtaining universal health coverage in Cambodia has been meticulously crafted, outlining precise plans and objectives to establish a comprehensive care system," stated Premier Hun Manet. "It aims to create a society where everyone has access to healthcare, ensuring that no one is left behind or deprived of essential medical services."
According to Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, the roadmap set three specific goals as follows:
Firstly, the primary aim is to extend essential health services to 80% of the population, currently reaching nearly 7 million people or 41% through various social protection schemes. Over the 12-year roadmap, the goal is to ensure nearly 14 million individuals can access nearby health services through a social protection system or equity card, a key focus of the Royal Government.
Secondly, the goal is to elevate essential health service coverage to at least 80%, guided by internationally recognised indicators. Central to this objective is the Royal Government's dedication to advancing global health coverage in Cambodia, ensuring maximum benefit for the people rather than a select few, aligning with the primary aim of the 7th mandate Royal Government of Cambodia.
Thirdly, the aim is to decrease out-of-pocket healthcare expenses to 35% of total affordable healthcare accessible locally.
Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underlined that as the country progresses, health service prices may rise with service modernisation. However, measures must be taken to prevent excessive out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, efforts are focused on enhancing physical infrastructure, modernising facilities and equipment, improving medication quality, boosting local capabilities, reinforcing ethical standards, advancing human resource development, and fostering domestic and international private sector engagement.
This roadmap serves as a strategic guide from 2024 to 2035, outlining priority policy options to enhance Cambodia's social healthcare system comprehensively. It provides a strategic direction, allowing relevant ministries to develop detailed action plans. Moreover, it aligns with the primary policy program of the 7th legislature of the National Assembly, focusing on expanding citizen coverage, essential health services, and financial risk mitigation in health financing, while also addressing incentives.
Drawing on past successes and a comprehensive analysis of present and future obstacles, this roadmap charts a strategic course towards achieving global health coverage in Cambodia from 2024 to 2035. It outlines strategic actions and priority objectives across sectors to develop the social health protection system and enhance healthcare provision capacities, both in the public and private sectors. The overarching aim is to minimize healthcare expenditures while maximising cost-effectiveness in the health sector.
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