The Global Status of Universal Health Coverage and Oncology Care

The reduction of preventable deaths from non-communicable diseases, including cancers, is one of the main targets of universal health coverage. Not only there is a shortage of financial resources for universal health coverage for cancer patients in many countries, but also there are many challenges in the continuity and the quality of care. There are disparities rooted in both providers’ and patients’ behavior at the time of care. Unmet needs for information on treatment and prognosis, inadequate cost coverage of care, and inadequate support for other living costs are contributing factors to poor prognosis in cancer patients, especially in cases with advanced stages and those living in low-income countries. There is a need for a comprehensive, holistic approach to the care of cancer patients considering the patients’ socioeconomic and cultural status and the institutional status of the providers.