Increased government health insurance coverage outlined
A “significant package of enhanced coverage” for Health Insurance Plan and FutureCare policyholders has been outlined by the Minister of Health.
Kim Wilson provided an update on progress towards the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in a ministerial statement in the House of Assembly this morning.
The enhanced benefits include one free annual health exam, expanded prescription drug coverage and the removal of the 12-month waiting period for the Personal Home Care benefit.
“These reforms directly advance our national goal of achieving equitable, affordable and accessible care for all,” Ms Wilson said.
“The introduction of one free annual healthcare visit for all HIP and FutureCare policyholders marks a transformational advancement in preventive care. These physical examinations, reimbursed at 100 per cent to providers and at no cost to patients, are expected to range from $250 to $350 depending on patient complexity.
“This investment is not merely a new benefit; it is a cornerstone of UHC.”
Common conditions such as hypertension and diabetes can be effectively managed through primary care, while early intervention reduces complications and lowers long-term system costs by preventing avoidable emergency visits and periods in hospital, she said.
Ms Wilson also detailed increases to prescription drug coverage.
She said HIP coverage will increase from $1,000 to $3,000 annually while FutureCare coverage will increase from $3,000 to $5,000 annually.
“This enhancement directly addresses rising medication costs and ensures that Bermudians are not forced to choose between financial security and the medications they need.
“Access to prescribed medication is central to chronic-disease management. When people can afford their prescriptions, they are far more likely to adhere to treatment regimens — leading to better health, fewer complications and reduced need for costly hospital care.”
Additionally, effective from January, HIP and FutureCare policyholders will gain immediate access to the PHC benefit.
The PHC benefit, capped at $60,000 a year based on medical assessment, enables seniors and people with chronic conditions to receive in-home care services, and adult day-care support.
Ms Wilson said: “This improvement supports ageing in place, and relieves hospital congestion by enabling timely discharge of medically fit patients.”
She added that the hourly reimbursement rate for dedicated caregivers will increase from $15 to $17.13.
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