The challenges and opportunities in implementing universal health coverage: a comparative study of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) aims to ensure access to quality healthcare services without financial hardship. This study compares the UHC models in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to identify their strengths, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Using a comparative literature analysis, the research highlights significant differences in funding mechanisms, population coverage, service efficiency, and policy implementation. Malaysia successfully leverages its high per capita income to provide universal healthcare through tax-funded services, while Thailand demonstrates efficient resource management with the "30 Baht" scheme, ensuring universal access despite its moderate-income level. Although Indonesia faces challenges due to its large population and low per capita income, it has made significant progress, covering 86% of its population since the launch of the National Health Insurance (JKN) program in 2014. Based on the findings, policy recommendations include enhancing financing mechanisms, improving service efficiency, and ensuring broader access to healthcare services in all regions. For Malaysia and Thailand, further exploring sustainable financing models and addressing disparities in healthcare quality can help ensure long-term UHC sustainability. For Indonesia, increasing compliance with premium payments, improving healthcare infrastructure, and addressing funding deficits are key to achieving more inclusive healthcare access. These recommendations offer valuable insights for improving UHC implementation strategies in diverse economic and demographic contexts.