Insurance Crucial To Closing The Healthcare Funding Gap – Experts

Private health sector players have emphasized that the development of affordable and innovative health insurance products will boost insurance uptake and address the healthcare funding gap.

Speaking during the launch of J-Junior Medical Cover by Jubilee Health Insurance, the experts noted that collaboration between government and health stakeholders will not only enhance access to quality healthcare but also alleviate financial burden on individuals and families due to high medical costs.

This follows recent findings in the World Bank’s 23rd Uganda Economic Update Report, which revealed that one million Ugandans slip into poverty annually due to out-of-pocket health expenses.

Despite the concerning statistic, the country has made remarkable strides towards achieving universal health coverage. The percentage of households impoverished due to out-of-pocket expenditure on health has continued to decrease since 2005, highlighting that investments in the health sector are yielding positive outcomes.
“As key healthcare stakeholders, we closely monitor research that informs the state of our sector. We are encouraged by the progress towards universal access to medical care. As part of our company’s effort to significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses, we will continue to innovate affordable products that meet the diverse health needs of individuals,” said Dan Musiime, Jubilee Health Insurance CEO.

Discussing the J-Junior product, Musiime noted that it was developed in response to recent statistics from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and the Ministry of Health, which revealed significant gaps in healthcare access and outcomes for children in Uganda. Research shows that the under-five mortality rate stands at 46 deaths per 1,000 live births, with many children suffering from preventable illnesses due to a lack of timely medical care.
“To promote equity and social justice, we must address mortality rates by offering solutions that ensure children have the opportunity to survive and thrive, regardless of their socio-economic background,” said Musiime. “J-Junior is the first comprehensive health insurance policy in Uganda designed specifically for children between 0-17 years, aiming to provide them with the essential healthcare they need.”
The J-Junior policy can be purchased through, partner banks including DTB, KCB, Ecobank, Absa, DFCU, and I&M, licensed Jubilee Health Insurance agents, insurance brokers and will soon be on the Jubilee Uganda website.

KEY BENEFITS OF J-JUNIOR HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY:

• Five Levels of Comprehensive Cover**: Tailored options to suit various healthcare needs and budgets.
• Extensive Coverage**: Includes pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, psychiatric care, congenital conditions, and HIV/AIDS.
• Nationwide Provider Network**: Access to a wide range of healthcare providers across Uganda.
• Referral Treatment**: Coverage for treatment outside Uganda, ensuring access to specialized care when needed.
• Post-Hospitalization Benefits**: Support for recovery after hospital stays.
• Funeral Expenses Benefit**: Financial support during challenging times.

For more information about the J-Junior policy, please visit our website or contact our customer service team at 0800 211 711 or via WhatsApp at 0772 751 825.

**Contact:**
www.jubileeinsurance.com/ug/
Jubilee Health Insurance Uganda
Email: caremanagement@jubileeuganda.com
Phone: 0800 211 711