Health Care Packages: The New Blueprint for Universal Coverage

In November 2022, Botswana and Sierra Leone took significant steps towards improving their health care systems. They focused on creating essential health care packages. These packages are designed to guide countries in their journey towards universal health coverage. The idea is to ensure that everyone has access to the health services they need, without suffering financial hardship. The packages help countries decide how to allocate resources, promote fairness, and prioritize services. They also encourage political support and accountability. The concept of health packages has changed over time. Initially, they focused on a few high-burden conditions. Now, they include a wide range of interventions that are cost-effective and meet the needs of the population. The goal is to provide essential services, with additional benefits as sub-packages. Workshops were held in both countries to support the development of these packages. The aim was to agree on the conditions to be addressed in each age group. Technical working groups were formed for each age group. They were responsible for evaluating interventions. They had to consider the technical aspects, the country's needs, and the appropriate level of care. As a result, draft packages were created. These packages cover interventions for over 80 conditions. The packages are expected to define what is essential for the population. They will promote the integration of health services and provide clear guidance to partners and stakeholders. Many countries are trying to adapt their health systems to meet the changing needs of their population. These packages can help guide the health sector inputs. They can ensure that the system functions well and helps achieve universal health coverage. The packages will serve as a blueprint for countries to follow. They will help ensure that everyone has access to the health services they need.