Universal Health Coverage — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires a fact-based, multi-dimensional approach. Aspirants must focus on key definitions, constitutional provisions, flagship schemes, and recent data points.

Start by memorizing the WHO definition of UHC and its three dimensions: population, services, and financial protection. Understand the constitutional articles implicitly supporting the Right to Health – Article 21 (Right to Life) and Article 47 (DPSP) – and their judicial interpretations.

Pay close attention to the National Health Policy (NHP) 2017's goals and targets related to UHC, especially public health expenditure targets.

Crucially, master the details of Ayushman Bharat: Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs). Know their launch years, target beneficiaries, coverage amounts, and primary functions.

Differentiate between PM-JAY's focus on secondary/tertiary care and AB-HWCs' role in comprehensive primary healthcare. Be aware of other relevant schemes like NHM, CGHS, and ESIC. Keep track of current affairs related to UHC, such as recent budget allocations, expansion of PM-JAY/AB-HWCs, progress of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) (e.

g., ABHA ID numbers), and any new policy announcements (e.g., cervical cancer vaccination in Budget 2024). Data points like the percentage of public health expenditure to GDP and trends in out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) are frequently asked.

A checklist of scheme names, coverage figures, constitutional articles, and WHO/SDG targets will be invaluable for quick recall.