The terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not synonymous. Free Healthcare means that all citizens receive health care without having to pay for services. Universal Healthcare means there is a health care system that provides coverage to a high percentage of citizens.

WHO response. UHC is firmly based on the 1948 WHO Constitution, which declares health a fundamental human right and commits to ensuring the highest attainable level of health for all. As a foundation for UHC, WHO recommends reorienting health systems towards primary health care (PHC).

Proponents of universal healthcare say it increases equality in a society and provides more affordable care. Critics say it can increase waiting times to get care or may lower the quality of healthcare.

With notably high healthcare costs, the USA provides government programmes to help the disabled, old people and other vulnerable demographics. Other countries with no free healthcare include Nigeria, Yemen, South Africa, Egypt, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran.