By: Omar Silva, NP Staff Writer

Belize City, Friday, 17th March 2023

National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage is set to expand in the north, with a budget allocation of $7 million for the rollout in Orange Walk. The allocation is a projection based on assumptions, such as covering 100% of the population and negotiating contract prices. While the actual cost of delivering services is yet to be determined, Dr. Ramon Figueroa, General Manager of NHI, believes they can manage with the projected amount.

The rollout will benefit around 60,000 residents in the area, with a focus on providing services for the elderly. An initial investment cost is required to set up a clinic for the elderly in partnership with HelpAge, but the NHI is optimistic about the benefits it will bring. Dr. Figueroa notes that the monthly budget increase of half a million dollars is manageable, and sees it as a seed for future growth.

The NHI's goal is to bring their services to more people in the north and provide coverage to those who need it the most. With the projected rollout in Orange Walk, they aim to improve the quality of healthcare for residents, particularly the elderly. While the budget allocation is a projection, the NHI is confident in its ability to manage costs and deliver quality services.

Based on Dr. Ramon Figueroa's explanation, the allocation of $7 million is a projected figure for the rollout of National Health Insurance (NHI) coverage in Orange Walk, which is expected to benefit around 60,000 residents in the area. The figure is based on certain assumptions, including 100% coverage of the population, which may not happen immediately, and the negotiation of contract prices. The projections also factor in inflation and an initial investment cost to set up a clinic for the elderly in partnership with HelpAge.

Dr. Figueroa explains that the $7 million allocation is not necessarily what they will spend, and that they will have a better idea of the actual cost of delivering the services at the end of the year. He also notes that the additional allocation will raise their monthly budget from $1.8 million to around $2.3 to $2.4 million, which he considers manageable. Overall, the NHI has big plans to expand their services to the north and provide coverage to more people, particularly the elderly.