What is the right to health?

The right to health is a basic human right that everyone should have access to. In California, it is included within the state constitution as well as human rights law. It ensures that everyone has access to healthcare and the services that this entails such as medical examinations, prescription drugs, and mental health services. The right to health is a broad concept and includes access to timely and quality healthcare services, clean and safe drinking water, safe and healthy working conditions, nutrition and food security, among other basic necessities. It also includes access to medicines and medical treatments, regardless of a person’s income or social status. Additionally, the right to health also extends to reproductive and sexual health. It recognizes a person’s right to make decisions about their own body, free from discrimination and coercion. This includes the right to access information about contraceptives and information about, and access to, all kinds of reproductive health services. The right to health is a fundamental right that cannot be taken away or denied. In California this right is protected by human rights laws and is enshrined in the state constitution. The right to health ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, is given access to quality healthcare services.

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