A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the devastating impact of high healthcare costs on African populations, with over 150 million individuals pushed into poverty due to out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Released to mark Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day, the report emphasizes that Africa faces significant barriers to achieving UHC, largely due to the heavy reliance on personal payments for healthcare. The data reveals that over 200 million Africans experience financial strain from these costs, and half of the world’s population impoverished by healthcare expenses resides in Africa.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s regional director for Africa, explained, “Paying for medicines and healthcare out of pocket can instantly push individuals into financial hardship, forcing them to cut back on essentials like food and housing.”
Between 2000 and 2019, the number of Africans making catastrophic health payments, exceeding 10% of household income, nearly doubled, rising from 52 million to 95 million. Despite global improvements in reducing poverty caused by healthcare costs, Africa’s progress has been slower, with a 50% reduction compared to a 75% decrease worldwide during the same period.
The report found that in 2019, out-of-pocket expenses accounted for over 25% of health spending in 31 African countries, exceeding 50% in 11 countries and 70% in three. Medicines and outpatient care were identified as the primary contributors to financial hardship, with vulnerable groups such as rural households, older adults, and multigenerational families most affected.
Countries with higher government investment in healthcare reported lower rates of financial hardship. The report urges African governments to protect citizens by exempting the poor from healthcare fees, expanding publicly funded services, and introducing health insurance schemes.
WHO called for immediate action to address these challenges, stating that without significant reforms, millions will continue to face poverty and limited access to essential healthcare services.
