WHY SRHR IS OFTEN EXCLUDED FROM UHC

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are vital part of overall health and well-being, and should be included as part of universal health coverage (UHC). However, in many countries, SRHR services are not consistently included as part of UHC due to social, cultural, and political barriers.

One of the main reasons that SRHR components are not always included in UHC is that they are often viewed as controversial or sensitive, particularly in countries with conservative social norms or where certain aspects of SRHR, such as abortion or contraception, are legally restricted. For example, some people may object to the provision of certain types of contraceptives or abortion services on moral or religious grounds. In addition, there may be stigma attached to seeking SRHR services, which can discourage people from accessing them. As a result, governments and policymakers may be hesitant to include SRHR services in UHC packages for fear of backlash or resistance from certain segments of the population. This can also be due to a lack of understanding about the importance of SRHR for overall health and well-being, or because other health issues are perceived as more pressing.

Another reason is that SRHR can be costly to implement, as it often requires the training of specialized healthcare providers and the procurement of specialized medical equipment and supplies. In low and middle income countries, where resources may be limited, governments may prioritize other health interventions over SRHR.

Finally, the lack of political will to prioritize SRHR can also contribute to its exclusion from UHC packages. In some cases, governments may prioritize other issues or may not see the value in investing in SRHR. This can lead to a lack of funding and support for SRHR programs and services, making it difficult to include them in UHC packages.

The exclusion of SRHR from UHC packages can be serious consequences for individuals and communities, particularly women and girls, who may be denied access to essential services and information. It is important for governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to work together to address these barriers and ensure that all people have access to the SRHR services they need.