PAPUA NEW GUINEA
A new health insurance scheme for the PNG Public Service has been agreed following meetings between the Government and unions.
Minister for Public Service, Elias Kapavore said there was a lot of demand from PS employees for a reliable and sustainable health insurance policy.
He said the proposed scheme would involve all of the country’s 915,000 Government employees.
“The lack of health insurance cover for the general workforce and elected leaders has taken its toll, with the increasing numbers of sick leave and, ultimately, the passing of many young promising Public Servants and leaders in recent times,” Mr Kapavore said.
“We cannot continue along this path if we are to have a productive workforce, especially in achieving our Vision 2050.”
He said the scheme provided the solution to the ever-increasing need for fundraising activities for medical treatment especially in overseas hospitals.
Mr Kapavore said once the scheme was approved, it would become compulsory for all PS staff.
“The scheme is designed to provide affordable and accessible high-quality insurance cover for all Government employees and parliamentarians in the initial stage, however, it will eventually be open to all Papua New Guineans who wish to participate,” he said.
Mr Kapavore said the scheme was backed by the world’s largest insurance company, Paris-based AXA, which would ensure that all valid claims were paid and members would have access to health services in overseas countries when necessary.
Port Moresby, 8 March 2019
