Financial protection in Europe: a systematic review of the literature and mapping of data availability

Universal health coverage ensures everyone can use the quality health services they need without experiencing financial hardship [1]. People experience financial hardship when out-of-pocket payments – formal and informal payments made at the time of using any health care good or service – are large in relation to ability to pay [2]. Even small out-of-pocket payments can cause financial hardship for poor households and those who have to pay for long-term treatment such as chronic medications [2].
Source: Health Policy - Category: Health Management Authors: Source Type: research