Health Insurance talks to resume; Premier suggests most people are in favour

The original article can be found in: BVI News Online

Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith has claimed that, by and large, members of the public are in favour of a National Health Insurance (NHI) system although they still have some unanswered questions and concerns.

In a statement Friday afternoon, he indicated that his administration is hitting the public consultation button again with virtually the entire House of Assembly showing support for the controversial plan.

During the first round of public consultations on the NHI persons expressed various concerns mainly about the fact that the plan would be mandatory for all legal residents.

Premier Smith however said the feedback has been constructive.

“We are grateful for your constructive feedback, which has assured us that while by and large you are in favour of a National Health Insurance System, there remained some unanswered questions and concerns, indicating that we still had some explaining to do in some sectors of our community.”

He continued: “I am pleased to say that virtually all of the members of the House of Assembly are united in our support for this vitally important endeavour.”

Single-payer system is best

Premier Smith also stated that his government has decided that a single-payer system is the best available option for ensuring the viability and long-term sustainability of the proposed NHI.

This means that the government, through Social Security Board, will be the single agency collecting the contributions and also paying for the health services.

Premier Smith stated that the decision to go along with the single-payer system was influenced by actuarial studies.

“A careful review of the actuarial data has confirmed that a single-payer system is the best available option for ensuring the viability and long-term sustainability of a National Health Insurance System in the Virgin Islands.”

Premier Smith continued: “The single-paying National Health System will provide the same excellent care from all your providers in the country, greatly improve hospital care and the same referral process for tertiary care that other insurers provide.”

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