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CASTRIES, St. Lucia, September 20, CMC — Prime Minister, Allen Chastanet, concluded a meeting with the National Health Insurance Committee and consultants from the World Bank, as he presses ahead with plans to implement a national health insurance program, here, by year-end.
On his official Facebook page, the Prime Minister said that the program forms part of the Health System Strengthening Project.
“The Heath System Strengthening Project will roll-out a package of health services, introduce financial incentives to improve service delivery, as well as upgrade health infrastructure and scale up preparedness and response for public health emergencies,” Chastanet announced.
He said it also aims to ensure that at least St. Lucians, especially the poor and vulnerable, are registered to the National Health Scheme by the end of the project.
“It also aims to ensure that at least 60 percent of diabetic and hypertensive patients, over 18 years old, are treated according to national protocols in public primary health care facilities,” Chastanet stated.
He observed that in addition, 33 primary health care centers will be equipped to serve as the first point of detection for selected infectious diseases, and hence, reduce the pressure on our hospitals.
The project is financed by a US$ 20 Million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) with a final maturity of 40 years and a 10-year grace period.
