One of the major provisions of the National Health Insurance Authority is the establishment of a Vulnerable Group Fund.
Therefore, as Imo people await the domestication of the Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) Discrimination Act by Gov. Hope Uzodinma, expectations are high that this Act will bring succor to PWDs and alleviate their suffering.
This is because a crucial aspect of the lives of all individuals, albeit PWDs, is good health, without which the very existence of man is incomplete, as conveyed in the National Health Insurance Act 2022.
This Act, which makes provisions for health insurance for Nigerians will be further strengthened by the domestication of the PWDs discrimination Act in Imo state, as anticipated.
The National Health Insurance Act 2022, No. 17 which carries the provision of the vulnerable group fund says that the sources for the Fund include basic healthcare provision fund to the Authority ; health insurance levy and special intervention fund allocated by the Government and appropriated to the Vulnerable Group Fund .
Other sources include money that accrues to the Vulnerable Group Fund from investments made by the Council ; and grants, donations, gifts and any other voluntary contribution made to the Vulnerable Group Fund.
According to the Act, the council may, by regulations, review the sources of funding to keep pace with developments in the health insurance industry.
For the purpose of implementing the objectives, the money from the Vulnerable Group Fund shall be expended to provide subsidy for health insurance coverage of vulnerable persons as determined by the Council ; and to pay for health insurance premium for indigents.
To enable PWDs and other vulnerable groups save for the rainy day, the Authority may invest a part of the Vulnerable Group Fund that it considers appropriate in securities and deposits, with the approval of the council.
This will help ensure that while the health needs of PWDs are met, their future financial needs are assured and they can avoid the dilemma of future financial uncertainties.
As always, C- Advocate remains committed to citizens’ advocacy and rights advocacy.
If you would like to know more about PWDs rights, feel free to contact us via our toll free line written on the flier below.
