Measurement of unmet healthcare needs to assess progress on universal health coverage - exploring a novel approach based on household surveys

Abstract

To assess progress on UHC more meaningfully, better methods are needed to measure unmet healthcare needs, taking into account both the perceived and unperceived needs, as well as incomplete care and inappropriate care. Appropriately designed household surveys offer a significant potential to allow its periodic measurement. Their limitations in measuring the 'inappropriate care' may necessitate supplementation with qualitative methods.