Did you know that Dec. 12 is Universal Health Coverage Day?
On Dec. 12, 2012, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed a resolution calling on U.N. member states to ensure that health systems avoid direct payments, so that even those who are unable to pay for treatment receive quality essential healthcare services, medicines and vaccines and are protected from financial burdens due to healthcare costs.
The U.N. has set a goal for members to try to achieve universal health coverage by 2030. Healthcare has been a hot topic this year, but I don't hear much discussion about this as a moral decision.
The United States is the only developed country on earth that does not guarantee medical care to anyone who gets sick. The United States is one of the founding members of the U.N, yet it seems we are not responding to the resolution for universal health coverage and addressing this as a fundamental moral decision. I believe healthcare for all is a human right. Please join me on Universal Health Coverage Day - an international day of action celebrated around the globe!
There will be rallies across Colorado, the United States, in 120 countries worldwide and right here in Durango: Dec. 12, noon at Buckley Park (corner of Main Avenue and 12th Street).
Let's seize this day and show widespread support for Health for All.
Attend! Invite your friends! Make signs. Information about Universal Health Coverage Day is at http://universalhealthcoverageday.org/
Jenny Pritchard
Durango
