The right to health is a fundamental human right that encompasses the right to access healthcare services, facilities, goods, and information necessary for the attainment of the highest standard of physical and mental health. It includes the right to prevention, treatment, and control of diseases, as well as the right to a healthy environment and living conditions.
Four elements of the right to health include:
1. Availability: This means that healthcare services, facilities, goods, and information must be available in sufficient quantity and quality to meet the health needs of individuals and communities.
2. Accessibility: This means that healthcare services, facilities, goods, and information must be accessible to all without discrimination, including physical, economic, and information barriers.
3. Acceptability: This means that healthcare services, facilities, goods, and information must be culturally appropriate, respectful of medical ethics, and sensitive to the needs and perspectives of individuals and communities.
4. Quality: This means that healthcare services, facilities, goods, and information must be scientifically and medically appropriate, safe, effective, and of good quality.