Today, the Ministry of Health entered into Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with multiple private sector healthcare providers to facilitate the rollout of eye screening and cervical screening programs.
The government has partnered with 24 private sector providers for the Eye Screening program and five providers for the Cervical Cancer Screening program.
These partnerships will involve the issuance of vouchers that will be honored by the participating healthcare facilities.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, announced that the Cervical Cancer Screening program will commence next week.
He expressed the goal of reaching at least 70% of eligible women, with aspirations to exceed the WHO’s recommendation by achieving a coverage rate of up to 90%.
As part of this year’s health budget, over 840 million dollars have been allocated to provide a $2,000 voucher for eye tests to more than 200,000 school children and 76,000 pensioners.
Dr. Anthony explained that the voucher system is two-fold: the first voucher covers screening costs, and if corrective spectacles are needed, a second voucher worth $15,000 will assist with their purchase.
Dr. Anthony emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that cashing the vouchers would not be permissible, urging healthcare providers to promptly report any attempts to do so.
He also stressed the need for services to be delivered in a timely and compassionate manner to meet the needs of citizens and ensure the success of the screening programs.