Government to Transition Medical Benefits Scheme to National Health Insurance
The Antigua and Barbuda government is moving forward with plans to transition the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) into a full National Health Insurance (NHI) system, aiming to expand healthcare coverage for citizens.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne confirmed the initiative during a recent interview on Pointe FM, stating that the planning process is in its final stages, with technical assistance from the United Nations (UN) to help structure the program.
“We are pretty close to establishing a National Health Insurance scheme,” Browne said. “The idea is to expand coverage beyond what MBS currently provides, offering more comprehensive medical benefits and ensuring that all citizens have access to quality healthcare.”
Currently, employers and employees contribute to MBS, which primarily covers select chronic illnesses and prescription medications.
The new NHI system is expected to broaden coverage to include more medical conditions, hospital services, and specialized treatments, reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.
Browne noted that the transition will require policy adjustments and financial restructuring, but he expects significant progress within the year.
The government has also been working on healthcare infrastructure improvements, including the construction of a $21 million renal center and upgrades to the Cancer Center, to ensure the country’s medical facilities can support the expanded healthcare system.
While a formal launch date has not yet been announced, the government is expected to finalize the framework for the NHI system soon and provide further details on implementation.
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will it truly cover everyone without added costs?
Hope this improves healthcare for all.
I wonder if this plan will actually fall through.