Social Security launches new card for all Belizeans

Beginning February first, Belizeans will have to get a new security card. But it won’t just be for working people, everyone, even children will need one because the card will be used to carry out the new National Health Insurance Scheme. The Social Security Board officially launched the new card Thursday night, saying it represents a new era for the S.S.B.

Narda Garcia, General Manager, Social Security Board

“Today at the Belize Social Security Board with the launching of the new Social Security card we take the first step to that much needed reform. The resgistration process that commences February first will allow us to register the entire population and provide data that will enable universal health coverage under the National Health Insurance. The new card with its advanced security features will not only enhance the collections of contributions, but marks the transformation of the Belize Social Security Board.”

Ralph Fonseca, Minister of Budget Planning and Management

“And now every Belizean, as soon as they leave the confines of their mother’s body, will be receiving a Social Security card. This card will not only be unique and distinct and a proud badge declaring us Belizeans, but will also be a card which carries the necessary data for a much improved Social Security scheme and of course coming into being very soon our National Health Insurance Fund. This along with other expanded benefits that the Prime Minister will be announcing very soon will provide Belizeans with a significantly improved way of life.”

The National Health Insurance Scheme is scheduled to start on the first of April giving the Social Security Board only two months to get all Belizeans registered. Other changes in the pipeline for the Social Security Board will be announced over the coming months, these will include an increase in some benefits as recommended during public consultations in May and June.