Dr. Hala El-Said, Economic Advisor to the President of Egypt, emphasized the vital role of the health sector in achieving global sustainable development goals, specifically Goal 3 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda. Speaking at the launch of the Annual Universal Health Insurance Authority (UHIA) Forum , Dr. El-Said underscored that the health sector is foundational to realizing all 17 UN goals, as it serves as the cornerstone for the advancement of human development.
Dr. El-Said noted the ongoing global challenges that hinder access to essential healthcare services, pointing out that a significant portion of the global population still lacks access to critical healthcare. “The situation has been exacerbated by recent economic and geopolitical challenges, including the Russian-Ukrainian crisis and the conflict in Gaza, which have contributed to unprecedented inflation rates. These factors pose substantial barriers to achieving universal health coverage worldwide,” she stated.
The Advisor emphasized that improving the healthcare sector remains a top priority for Egypt, reflecting the country’s commitment to its citizens’ well-being. She reaffirmed that human development, centered on improving healthcare access and quality, is crucial to Egypt’s long-term growth strategy. “This commitment is enshrined in the Egyptian Constitution, particularly in Article 18, which guarantees every citizen the right to health and integrated healthcare services based on quality standards,” Dr. El-Said explained.
The National Sustainable Development Strategy, Egypt’s Vision 2030, was also highlighted as a framework prioritizing accessible and quality healthcare services for all citizens. “The strategy outlines clear targets to improve the health sector equitably and fairly, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all segments of society,” Dr. El-Said added.
In discussing the achievements of the Universal Health Insurance Law, Dr. El-Said emphasized that it represents a constitutional commitment and a realization of Egypt’s Vision 2030. The law, she noted, addresses long-standing structural issues that have plagued the healthcare sector, such as financial sustainability, coverage gaps, and citizen dissatisfaction with the quality of services provided. “The new system is founded on principles of solidarity and shared responsibility between various segments of society and the state. It separates the service provider, funder, and regulator – a new approach in our health system that aims to establish sound governance, accountability, and transparency,” she explained.
The Universal Health Insurance Law aims to ensure comprehensive coverage for all Egyptians, with a focus on primary healthcare and family medicine. Dr. El-Said highlighted the law’s mandatory nature, which guarantees coverage for all families, preventing higher-income groups from opting out and ensuring financial sustainability for the system. “The new law offers multiple advantages, including its focus on primary healthcare and family medicine as a gateway to access essential services,” she continued.
By implementing these reforms, Dr. El-Said emphasized the government’s commitment to improving health equity, optimizing resource management, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Egypt’s healthcare system.
