Measuring universal health coverage to ensure continuing care for older people: a scoping review with specific implications for the Iranian context

Abstract

Background: To measure progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) in the context of ageing, it is necessary to develop suitable monitoring frameworks. The global UHC monitoring framework is focused on priorities for younger populations and does not adequately address issues relevant to ageing populations. Aims: This study aims to propose a framework to measure UHC in a way that is relevant to health systems responding to population ageing. Methods: Based on a search strategy focusing on measures of UHC in relation to older people’s care, we searched electronic databases and screened the records to qualitatively analyse the data. We also conducted 2 rounds of expert panel consultations to discuss the findings and examine the feasibility of the recommended indicators using the case of the Islamic Republic of Iran as an example. Results: We identified main themes and classified core indicators under each theme. Besides 25 indicators for quality of care, there were 22 indicators for financial protection. Ten indicators were retrieved measuring coverage and access to long-term care. Some indicators were excluded owing to limited data availability or absence of related programmes and some alternate indicators were proposed. Conclusions: We identified several indicators which could be used to measure progress toward UHC in the context of population ageing. However, not all of these indicators are feasible in context of low- and middle-income countries. This study could offer useful general guidance on how to define the exact set of measures in a specific country context.