Health care quality challenges in low- And middle-income countries

Inequity exists in the access to health care around the globe and particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Recently, there has been substantial focus on improving access to health services by improving healthcare systems to ensure Universal Health Coverage [1]. There is a need of worldwide consensus on the development of safe, essential, life-saving surgical care quality indicators for better outcomes around the globe [2].

Surgical care has been recognized by governments worldwide as a main component of Universal Health Coverage and health systems strengthening. In 2015, the World Health Assembly Resolution 68.15 has been adopted to prioritize surgery and anesthesia care as a part of universal health coverage for all people globally by 2030 [3, 4]. The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery [5] emphasizes on the human and economic effect of surgical conditions and highlights the gaps in knowledge, policy, and action with focus on LMICs. It is suggested that surgical care must become an integral component of health care and health systems in LMICs.