UHC Forward: Towards Universal Health Coverage

Health Systems 20/20: On the heels of the launch of Benin’s first universal health insurance plan, Régime d’assurance maladie universelle (RAMU), Health Systems 20/20 was asked to join partners in advising the RAMU implementation strategy and identifying opportunities for USAID-led technical assistance. The landmark policy, launched by President Thomas Boni Yayi in December, will increase access to lifesaving health care for people in Benin, 37 percent of who live in poverty.

The Benin Cabinet decided to develop a universal health coverage plan in May 2008, but struggled to implement the plan.