Insurance crucial to closing healthcare funding gap, say experts

Private health sector players have emphasised that the development of affordable and innovative health insurance products will boost insurance uptake and address the healthcare funding gap.

These remarks were made during the launch of J-Junior Medical Cover by Jubilee Health Insurance.

Experts noted that collaboration between the government and health stakeholders will not only enhance access to quality healthcare but also alleviate the financial burden on individuals and families due to high medical costs.

This follows recent findings in the World Bank's 23rd Uganda Economic Update Report, which revealed that one million Ugandans slip into poverty annually due to out-of-pocket health expenses.

Despite this concerning statistic, the country has made remarkable strides towards achieving universal health coverage.

The percentage of households impoverished due to out-of-pocket expenditure on health has continued to decrease since 2005, highlighting that investments in the health sector are yielding positive outcomes.

Dan Musiime, Jubilee Health Insurance Chief Executive Officer, said that as key healthcare stakeholders, they closely monitor research that informs the state of the sector.

"We are encouraged by the progress towards universal access to medical care. As part of our company’s effort to significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses, we will continue to innovate affordable products that meet the diverse health needs of individuals,” he said.

Discussing the J-Junior product, Musiime noted that it was developed in response to recent statistics from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and the Ministry of Health, which revealed significant gaps in healthcare access and outcomes for children in Uganda.

Research shows that the under-five mortality rate stands at 46 deaths per 1,000 live births, with many children suffering from preventable illnesses due to a lack of timely medical care.

"To promote equity and social justice, we must address mortality rates by offering solutions that ensure children have the opportunity to survive and thrive, regardless of their socio-economic background," said Musiime.

"J-Junior is the first comprehensive health insurance policy in Uganda designed specifically for children between 0-17 years, aiming to provide them with the essential healthcare they need," he added.

The J-Junior policy can be got through the Jubilee Uganda website, partner banks including DTB, KCB, Ecobank, Absa, DFCU, and I&M, as well as through licensed Jubilee Health Insurance agents and insurance brokers.

The J-Junior policy offers several key benefits. It provides five levels of comprehensive cover, tailored to suit various healthcare needs and budgets. It also offers extensive coverage, including pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, psychiatric care, congenital conditions, and HIV/AIDS.

With a nationwide provider network, policyholders have access to a wide range of healthcare providers across Uganda. The policy includes coverage for referral treatment outside Uganda, ensuring access to specialized care when needed.

Additionally, it supports recovery with post-hospitalization benefits and provides financial support for funeral expenses during challenging times.