Universal health care a right for all - WHO chief

NEW YORK, Sept 24 -- The head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) hailed world leaders' declaration on universal health coverage (UHC) on Monday, saying it declares health as a right for all, Xinhua news agency reported.

"This declaration represents a landmark for global health and development. The world has 11 years left to make good on its sustainable development goals. Universal health coverage is key to ensuring that happens," said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of WHO.

He called health "a fundamental right" and "a means to achieve prosperity."

"Health is not an outcome of development, it is a prerequisite," Ghebreyesus said, following the approval by world leaders of a political declaration calling for universal health care by 2030 at a high-level meeting.

Good health and well-being is one of the 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals.

"Ultimately, health is a political choice. Our vision is not health for some, health for most, but health for all," he said.

The declaration came a day after the WHO and partners flagged the need to double health coverage between now and 2030 or leave up to 5 billion people unable to access health care.

-- BERNAMA