Public consultations regarding National Health Insurance Bahamas continued throughout the island of Grand Bahama on Friday, February 12, to educate and engage residents about the modern, affordable and accessible healthcare system.
Ms. Damara Dillett, representing the NHI Bahamas Secretariat, spoke about the need for national health insurance, clarified who is eligible and outlined the benefits of primary care. While consulting with staff members at the Ministry of Grand Bahama, Ms. Dillett confirmed who is eligible to receive NHI Bahamas benefits. She said, “Bahamians resident in country and legal residents – no matter their income, age, island of residence or current health status – can receive health care free of cost at point of service with the NHI Bahamas plan.”
Additionally, consultations continued with staff of the Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation, human resource personnel with the Grand Bahama Port Authority and Directors of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce. The conversations provided clarity.
During the consultations, individuals were advised about what to expect when NHI Bahamas is fully implemented. Private insurance holders questioned whether or not NHI Bahamas mandated that they give up their existing coverage. Ms. Dillett advised that persons had the option of keeping their private health insurance and further explained that there was no mandate for individuals to discontinue private healthcare coverage.
Residents attending town hall meetings in Eight Mile Rock and West End, listened attentively about NHI Bahamas. They embraced the opportunity to ask questions and get more details about the registration process. Ms. Dillett explained that the “Registration drive for the National Insurance Board (NIB) Smart Card continues at NIB locations. Individuals ought to ensure that they obtain their NIB Smart Card in order to be prepared for the enrolment.”
All residents are encouraged to attend community meetings across the country to become more informed about NHI Bahamas and the benefits of the programme. Details of these meetings will be made available to you.
The Secretariat continues to meet with stakeholder groups regularly. Any group that wishes to schedule a presentation by the NHI Bahamas team may contact the Secretariat directly at 502-7601 or email info@nhibahamas.gov.bs.
More information on NHI Bahamas can also be found at www.nhibahamas.gov.bs.
Source: BIS
