HEALTH TIPS: Health is a right, not a privilege – what it means for Guyana

…Why access to care, prevention, and equity must be at the centre of our health system

By Dr Tariq Jagnarine
Fam Med, Public Health

Why this matters now
Every year on April 7, the world observes World Health Day, a reminder that health is not just a personal issue; it is a fundamental human right. The 2026 theme, “Together for health. Stand with science”, highlights a critical message: strong health systems depend on trust in science, collaboration, and informed decision-making.
Yet for many people, access to timely, high-quality health care is not guaranteed. Across low- and middle-income countries, including Guyana, barriers such as cost, distance, limited services, and delayed care continue to affect health outcomes (World Health Organisation, 2023).
The question we must ask is simple: Can everyone access the care they need, when they need it?

What does “health as a right” mean?
The concept of health as a human right means that every person should have access to essential healthcare services without financial hardship. This includes preventive care, treatment, rehabilitation, and health promotion (WHO, 2023).
Health is not only the absence of disease. It includes physical, mental, and social well-being. When access to care is unequal, health outcomes become unequal.
In practical terms, this means that where you live, how much you earn, or who you are should not determine whether you receive care.

The reality in Guyana
Guyana has made significant progress in expanding healthcare services, particularly in Infectious disease treatment, chronic disease management, maternal health, and vaccination. However, challenges remain.
People living in remote or hinterland regions may face long travel times to reach health facilities. Some communities experience shortages of healthcare workers or limited access to specialised services. Delays in diagnosis and treatment are still common, especially for chronic diseases.
These gaps are not unique to Guyana but addressing them is essential for improving population health.

Why prevention is central to health equity
Many of the diseases discussed in this series – diabetes, hypertension, stroke, kidney disease, cancer, and infections – share a common pattern: they often develop silently and are detected late.
Preventive healthcare changes this pattern. Routine screening, early diagnosis, vaccination, and health education reduce disease burden and improve outcomes (Maciosek et al, 2010).
Prevention is also more cost-effective than treatment. It reduces hospital admissions, complications, and long-term disability.
A health system that prioritises prevention promotes equity.

Barriers that still exist
Despite progress, several barriers continue to affect access to care. These include:
•Financial constraints
•Geographic distance
•Limited awareness
•Fear and stigma
•Delays in seeking care
For example, many people delay testing for conditions such as STIs, TB, or cancer due to fear or embarrassment. Others may not seek care until symptoms become severe.
These barriers contribute to late diagnosis and poorer health outcomes.

The role of primary healthcare
Strong primary healthcare systems are the foundation of equitable health access. Primary care services provide the first point of contact for individuals and communities.
When primary care is accessible and well-resourced, it enables early disease detection, management of chronic conditions, and delivery of preventive services.
The World Health Organisation emphasises that strengthening primary health care is one of the most effective ways to achieve universal health coverage (WHO, 2023).

Health is more than hospitals
Health is influenced by more than medical care. Factors such as housing, education, employment, nutrition, and environment all play a role. These are known as the social determinants of health (Marmot et al, 2008).
For example, overcrowding increases the spread of infections like TB. Poor diet contributes to diabetes and heart disease. Stress and economic pressure affect mental health.
Addressing these broader factors is essential for improving health outcomes at a population level.

The role of communities and individuals
While health systems are critical, individuals and communities also play an important role. Seeking care early, attending regular check-ups, following treatment plans, and adopting healthy behaviours all contribute to better outcomes.
Communities can support health by promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging positive health practices.
Health is a shared responsibility.

Moving towards universal health coverage
Universal health coverage means that everyone receives the health services they need without financial hardship. It is a global priority and a key goal of public health systems worldwide (WHO, 2023).
Achieving this requires:
•Investment in health systems
•Training and retention of healthcare workers
•Strengthening infrastructure
•Expanding access to services
•Improving health education
For Guyana, continued progress in these areas will be essential for ensuring equitable access to care.

Why this matters for the future
Health systems that prioritise equity and prevention are more resilient. They are better prepared to respond to emerging challenges, including infectious disease outbreaks, chronic disease burdens, and environmental threats.
Investing in health today protects future generations.
Health should not depend on where you live, what you earn, or how quickly you can access care. It is a fundamental human right.
On this World Health Day, the message is clear:
Check early. Seek care. Support each other.
Health is a right for everyone, everywhere.
References
1. World Health Organisation. Universal Health Coverage and Health Systems Strengthening. WHO; 2023.
2. Maciosek MV, Coffield AB, Edwards NM, et al. Prioritising clinical preventive services. Am J Prev Med. 2010;38(1):1-12.
3. Marmot M, Friel S, Bell R, et al. Closing the gap in a generation: health equity. Lancet. 2008;372(9650):1661-1669.