Translated and reprinted with permission from RevistaCubana de SaludPública. 2016 Apr –Jun;42(2).
Original available from: http://www.revsaludpublica.sld.cu/index.php/spu/article/view/530

The current definition of universal health coverage lacks several elements essential to advance public health. This article aims to discuss the concept and interpretation of universal health coverage and suggests an inclusive definition that is applicable to states, governments, and the societal and economic sectors ultimately responsible for public health. We will discuss the complexity and social determinants of universal health coverage, and the need for health to be built through social action, together with the states, governments and all societal actors, within a supportive legal framework. One suggestion is to consider health coverage as the ability of society, states and governments to respond to population health and well-being, which includes legislation, infrastructure availability, social capital and technology, as well as comprehensive planning, organizational, action and financing strategies to protect the health of the whole population, equally and inclusively.

KEYWORDS Universal health coverage, public health, social action, Cuba