Universal health coverage in Cambodia: current status and future prospects.

Abstract

Despite improvements in health indices over the past decades, Cambodia faces significant challenges in achieving universal health coverage (UHC). With an effective UHC score of 58 in 2021 - lower than regional neighbours - the country struggles with disparities in health care access, urban-rural inequalities, and rising non-communicable diseases. The health care system continues to be heavily privatised, with out-of-pocket charges accounting for 55% of overall health expenditures in 2021. Although they have increased financial protection, government programs like the National Social Security Fund and Health Equity Funds are still insufficient. Strengthening public health care, decentralising governance, adopting digital health solutions, and establishing a Public Health Commission are crucial steps toward an equitable and effective UHC by 2035.