P.M. backs NHI in 2001 message
In his traditional New Year’s address Prime Minister Said Musa, not
surprisingly, focused on the latest developments in negotiations with
Guatemala. But he also devoted considerable time to a purely domestic
matter. With fresh increases in Social Security contributions due to
come on stream this week, the P.M. sought to soften the blow of another
new levy which will effect workers and their employers later this year:
the NHI.
Prime Minister Said Musa
“Progress requires change, and sometimes changes can be
misunderstood and resented, although they are ultimately for the good of
the majority. I know that one such change that we are proposing is
causing a great deal of anxiety, although it is a change that I am
convinced will greatly improve the health of the nation and its people.
I refer to the National Health Insurance Scheme, and because of its
importance and the many misunderstandings about it, I want you to know
how I understand it will work and why I think it is best for us all.
“The proposed system will launch a comprehensive health care service
for the entire population by providing a package of services to all
Belizeans irrespective of their ability to pay. The services to be
provided will include: general medicine with easy access to consult a
doctor, nursing services, consultations with a pediatrician,
consultations with an obstetrician, clinic and laboratory services
including ultra sound examination, prescription drugs.”
“The scheme will cover detection and monitoring of patients with
hypertension, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, early detection of breast cancer,
cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and tuberculosis. It will include
hospital treatment, emergency and general surgery. It will also cover
dental education and prevention, eye care including cataract surgery,
eyeglasses and school screening.”
NHI will begin shortly with a pilot programme on the south side of
the Belize District financed by the IDB. When the full system is
implemented it will be paid for by payroll deductions from employers and
employees.
