Egypt's Universal Health Insurance Authority (UHIA) has on Thursday refuted recent misleading reports by a foreign media outlet, which spread inaccurate and incomplete information about the country's new Universal Health Insurance System (UHIS). In a statement, the authority clarified several key points, aiming to dispel misconceptions and ensure citizens are properly informed about the system's operation. No Denial of Government Services for Non-Payers The authority dismissed claims that citizens who fail to pay their health insurance subscriptions would be denied essential government services, such as obtaining IDs or driving licences. The statement emphasised that there is no such policy in place, and no decisions have been made linking overdue subscriptions to restrictions on these services. Exemption for the Needy Refuting another false report, the authority confirmed that the claim of forcing low-income individuals to obtain a "poverty certificate" in order to be exempt from subscription fees was entirely untrue. It explained that six categories of individuals, including those receiving social protection benefits like Takaful and Karama, are automatically exempt from subscription fees. Flexible Payment Plans for Subscribers The statement also clarified that subscription to the health insurance system is mandatory under Egyptian law, but citizens are not required to pay all overdue fees at once. Instead, they can spread payments over a period of up to three years, providing financial flexibility. End of Old Health Insurance Systems The authority reassured citizens that there is no duplication in subscription payments. Once the comprehensive health insurance system is implemented in a governorate, all previous health insurance systems are discontinued, and no additional payments are required under any other scheme. Financial Surpluses, Not Profits The UHIA also addressed concerns about the financial model of the system. It clarified that the authority does not generate profits but is currently building financial surpluses from various funding sources. These surpluses will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the system as it expands to other areas. Rapid Expansion of the System While addressing concerns that the system's rollout would take years, the authority confirmed that the pilot phase is currently underway in six governorates, with more planned for the near future. The first phase of implementation is progressing as scheduled, and there are plans to speed up the rollout in the coming months. With the universal health insurance system set to cover all citizens in Egypt, the authority stressed the importance of transparency and clear communication to ensure that the programme meets its goals of providing equitable healthcare to all Egyptians. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
