NHI Turns 25: From “Comatose” to Reaching 270,000 Belizeans
For Belizeans who once had to move across the city just to register for health insurance, the National Health Insurance has come a long way. NHI is marking 25 years of medical service to the country. The programme that began on the south side of Belize City now reaches citizens in every district. On Thursday, the Caribbean Shores area representative, the Social Security Board CEO and the BMDA president all weighed in on the milestone at the 43rd Annual Medical Congress. Here’s more.
Kareem Musa
Kareem Musa, Area Representative, Caribbean Shores
“I just want to express my gratitude on behalf of the good people of Caribbean Shores, because a few years ago, not too distant past, Caribbean Shores constituents on the north side had to become innovative DPM, and they had to find residence on the south side in order to qualify and register with NHI, and for a long time, a few years, you could say NHI was really in a state of paralysis, comatose even, and to see how far we have come in just the last few years, it is indeed a remarkable achievement, and now my constituents can actually register at the place they live.”
Jerome Palama
Jerome Palama, CEO, Social Security Board
“The management and staff of the Social Security Board, the entire board, congratulate everyone whose vision, leadership and sustained effort have brought NHI to this important milestone. Twenty-five years is more than an anniversary. It is an opportunity to honour the belief that gave birth to NHI, that access to essential health services should be guided by need, dignity and fairness.”
Ramoncito Yacab
Dr. Ramoncito Yacab, President, BMDA
“Today we gather not merely for a scientific meeting but to reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing medicine and to improving health and wellbeing for our people in Belize. Our profession is founded upon integrity, compassion, scientific excellence and service to humanity.”
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