How safety-net health systems can advance equity in gastroenterology and hepatology

Abstract

Universal health coverage refers to an individual's ability to access the health services they need without facing financial hardship.1 Achieving universal health coverage is a global priority, but 3·5 billion people worldwide lack adequate access to health care.1 In the USA, safety-net health systems are crucial to attaining universal health coverage. Safety-net health systems provide care to the most vulnerable patient populations, including the uninsured, underinsured, and those receiving public insurance (eg, Medicaid, Medicare).