In the framework of the international conference “Today, who is my neighbor?”, held in Rome with the participation of European, healthcare, and ecclesial institutions, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need to place health at the center of public policies, stating that it cannot be considered a luxury, but rather an essential condition for social peace.
During his address, the Pontiff highlighted that universal health coverage should not be understood merely as a technical goal, but as a moral imperative for societies that aspire to be just and equitable. In this regard, he stressed the importance of ensuring access to comprehensive, adequate, and high-quality health services, especially for the most vulnerable populations, in order to prevent health inequalities from becoming a source of social instability.
This perspective aligns with the principles of the international campaign Thank You, Doctor!, which promotes a human-centered vision of medicine, focused on the value of the doctor–patient relationship as a fundamental pillar of healthcare systems.
The strategic role of primary care
The address highlighted the essential role of primary care as the entry point to the healthcare system and as a key element in ensuring continuity of care, prevention, and coordination of services. The family doctor, due to their proximity and comprehensive knowledge of the patient, plays a decisive role in improving health outcomes and strengthening trust in the healthcare system.
In line with this vision, the Thank You, Doctor! campaign promotes the recognition of primary care physicians as a structural pillar of a more efficient, sustainable, and person-centered healthcare model.
Health inequalities and current challenges
The meeting coincided with the presentation of the European report on health equity, which shows a growing increase in inequalities in access to healthcare services, as well as the rising impact of factors such as poverty, loneliness, and social isolation. Particular attention was also drawn to mental health, especially among young people.
In this context, the importance of adopting comprehensive approaches that address both the social determinants of health and the human dimension of healthcare was emphasized.
A person-centered approach
Pope Leo XIV reiterated that building fair healthcare systems requires a focus on the dignity of each person and on the shared responsibility to care for others. In this context, the humanization of medicine emerges as a key element to ensure not only quality care, but also social cohesion.
The Thank You, Doctor! campaign aligns with this approach by promoting the recognition, support, and protection of healthcare professionals, as well as strengthening the doctor–patient relationship as the foundation of more accessible, effective, and sustainable care.
In a context marked by technological innovation, this approach reminds us that progress in healthcare must go hand in hand with a strong commitment to the human values that underpin medical practice.