Jamaica Government engages PAHO/WHO to assist in development of a National Health Insurance scheme

​Health Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton, says the Jamaican government has engaged a team from the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) to assist in the development of a national health insurance scheme.
 
“Last year, we brought in a team from PAHO/WHO to help us to look at healthcare financing. We have consultants that, in another two to three months, will present a proposal, which we anticipate will move the country towards a national health insurance scheme,” the minister said. He added that the completed document will be examined, and a determination will be made as to its implementation.
 
Pointing out that very few Jamaicans have health insurance, the minister explained that with the increasing health risks, it is essential that all citizens have access to quality healthcare services.
 
“Only about 20 % of the people are insured, and of that 20%, about 10% are government employees, and 8% are in the private sector,” he said.