Misungwi DC: Embrace Universal Health Insurance Act

MWANZA: MISUNGWI District Commissioner, Ms Johari Samizi, has called on citizens and various stakeholders to actively participate in the implementation of the Universal Health Insurance Act, emphasising that the law is a key pillar in improving social welfare and ensuring that every citizen access quality healthcare services without financial barriers.

Ms Samizi made the remarks recently while speaking at a special meeting held in Misungwi District, Mwanza Region, which brought together officials from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

The meeting aimed to discuss in depth the implementation of the Universal Health Insurance Act, provide education to leaders and the community, receive feedback from stakeholders and strengthen public understanding of the importance of having health insurance coverage.

Speaking at the meeting, Ms Samizi said the participation of government leaders, health officials and insurance institutions reflects the seriousness and significance of health insurance to the development and well-being of the Misungwi District community.

She explained that the government aims to ensure no citizen is denied healthcare services due to lack of financial capacity, noting that health insurance offers a long-term and sustainable solution to this challenge.

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On his part, Misungwi District Medical Officer, Mr Clement Morabu, explained that NHIF offers various health insurance packages, including individual plans as well as packages for special groups such as miners, motorcycle (bodaboda) riders, traders, farmers and other social and economic groups.

He said the packages are designed to meet the diverse needs of citizens based on their activities and financial capabilities. Mr Morabu further clarified that the health insurance system covers a family with six people including, a father, a mother and four children.

He explained that the community package, which costs 150,000/-, covers a total of 372 listed health services and that households with fewer members pay the same amount as those with six people.

The meeting also discussed in detail the issue of claims payments to health service providers, as well as the importance of health facilities providing services equally to all patients, without discrimination between insured clients and those paying in cash.

It was emphasised that fair and quality service delivery forms the foundation for the success of the universal health insurance system.

On the technology front, the meeting placed strong emphasis on the use of ICT systems in the provision of health insurance services. It was explained that insured clients will use their insurance number together with fingerprint verification to confirm their identity when accessing healthcare services.