Universal coverage refers to a healthcare system where all individuals have access to necessary medical services without financial hardship. This means that everyone, regardless of their income or health status, can receive care when they need it. Universal coverage aims to ensure that no one is excluded from essential health services. Countries with universal coverage often fund their healthcare systems through taxes or government programs, which helps to spread the costs across the population. Examples of such systems include those in Canada and many countries in Europe. The goal is to improve public health outcomes and reduce disparities in access to care.