FutureCare was touted as a health care system for all Bermudians over 65 and heralded as an answer to the ageing population's insurance nightmares in 2007.

Government has since scaled back the plan and implemented a phased approach, citing the economic climate as the main reason it is unable to offer FutureCare to all of Bermuda's seniors at the moment.

The Royal Gazette takes a look at the nuts and bolts of FutureCare.

Who is eligible for Future Care?

• Any senior 65 or older who was enrolled in HIP prior to April 1, 2009

• Anyone who turns 65 in 2009. However they are not automatically enrolled and must sign up for the programme

• Any senior who qualifies for financial assistance

• Everyone enrolled will be expected to pay $60 a month

Who it does not cover:

• Anyone who is over 65 but was not on HIP before April this year

• Anyone over 65 who is unable to pay for private health care after retiring, being fired or made redundant, and is not eligible for financial assistance

• Anyone who is not currently eligible will have to wait until at least April 2010 when Government anticipates it will start phase two of the plan.

FutureCare will cover:

• Unlimited physician visits

• $2000 coverage annually for prescription drugs

• Hospital inpatient and outpatient visits

• Visits to general practitioners and specialists

• Preventive, diagnostic and laboratory services

• Durable medical equipment and prosthetics

• Long-term skilled nursing services to seniors in their homes

• Prescription drugs

• Vision care

• Dental services

• Overseas care, as necessary, by approved hospitals

It will not cover:

• Long-term custodial care in a nursing home

• Airfare and hotel costs for overseas care

• Overseas elective treatment or care that could be provided in Bermuda