Seniors who signed up for the second phase of FutureCare have expressed their pleasure with the Government's comprehensive medical scheme.

Phase two opened on April 1 a continuation of an ambitious programme launched last year.

The programme fulfils a Progressive Labour Party election pledge to offer affordable health insurance for the elderly.

Keith Dunstan, 76, and his wife Carol went to a public meeting on the health care plan on March 30 to find out more about it and signed up two days later.

"It was very interesting," Mr. Dunstan said. "I would encourage all seniors to go to these meetings. [Assistant director of the Department of Health Insurance] Colin Anderson was very impressive.

"He explained to us the benefits, and what was not covered by FutureCare. It is comprehensive, not major medical."

Previously the Dunstans had been covered by a private scheme. After attending the meeting they realised they would get better dental and vision benefits with the Government plan.

"Between me and my wife we are saving $450 a month," Mr. Dunstan told The Royal Gazette. "FutureCare covers overseas operations they do not cover your transport or accommodation, but I can keep the money I am saving for that."

FutureCare was launched last year to provide affordable health insurance for the elderly. More than 2,600 seniors joined the first phase at a cost of $260 a month. The price for those seniors rose to $300 a month this year.

The second phase opens FutureCare up to another 5,471 seniors — but they will have to pay $600 a month for the same benefits.

Anyone over 70, or anyone who turns 65 this financial year, can enrol in the scheme. It offers $2,000 worth of prescriptions, unlimited physician visits, vision and dental care, plus overseas health care.

And signing up for the second phase was a painless process according to Mr. Dunstan.

"We went in and filled out a one-page form," he said. "You give your name, social insurance number and certificate of indemnity. For people over 65, the hospital covers 80 percent of costs. For people over 75 it is 90 percent. That is why we could never figure out why the private insurance was rising ten to 15 percent a year, but they always had explanations for it.

"I would urge all seniors to attend the public meetings. Mr. Anderson fielded questions from a lawyer and others and never failed to give satisfactory answers. It was indeed a pleasure to hear about FutureCare from the people who are the administrators and who know what they are talking about. I would encourage seniors who are have trouble with paying for private to join."

Sylvia Darrell, a senior who joined the first phase of FutureCare last year, is also pleased with her experience.

"I didn't know what I would do if I didn't have FutureCare coverage," she said. "Being that I am diabetic, the prescription drug benefit is very useful. And the dental benefits are wonderful. I am very thankful."

The third phase of FutureCare will launch next April 1.

l Have you signed up for FutureCare phase two? Tell us why. E-mail roklynch@royalgazette.bm or call 278-0149.