Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton (left) listens as cardiologist and managing director of Partners Interventional Centre of Jamaica Limited, Dr Victor Elliott, explains the functions of a cardiac machine, during a recent tour of the facility at Medical Associates Hospital in St Andrew. Located on the second floor of the hospital at 18 Tangerine Place, the centre is a privately owned and operated medical unit dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

THE 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.

Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton made the disclosure at the recent opening of the Partners Interventional Centre of Jamaica Limited at Medical Associates Hospital in St Andrew.

“Last year, we brought in a team from PAHO/WHO to help us to look at health care 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.

Dr Tufton said the completed document will be examined and a determination 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 services.

“Only about 20 per cent (of persons) are insured.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/paho-who-to-help-develop-national-health-insurance-scheme_125252