NHI bill comes up in parliament

Zambian Parliament

The National Health Insurance Bill is this afternoon expected to come up for second reading in Parliament.

The Bill will facilitate for the establishment of a National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme which is a system of funding health services through citizens making mandatory financial contributions.

The objectives of the Bill are to provide for universal access to quality insured health care services, establish the National Health Insurance Management Authority and provide for its functions and powers as well as provide for accreditation criteria and conditions in respect of insured health care services.

And former Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Leonard Hikaumba has told QFM News via telephone that the intention of the bill is welcome as it is aimed at providing quality health services.

Mr. Hikaumba says from the engagements he has had with union leaders, the general feeling is that the bill is okay, but that there has not been an inclusive consultation on the part of the government.

He has appealed to the authorities that the process is slowed down so that the concerns of all stakeholders can be considered.

Mr. Hikaumba feels that if well implemented, this scheme can help a lot in terms of people accessing quality health services.