Health cover, hope for all

MTWARA: IT is all smiles for Tanzanians as the government rolls out Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme nationwide, giving more citizens access to healthcare even when they cannot afford to pay for treatment.

The government is targeting 625,000 households unable to afford health insurance in the second phase of UHC, expanding financial protection for families who might otherwise struggle to meet medical bills.

Speaking during the launch in Mtwara yesterday, Minister for Health Mohamed Mchengerwa said the programme reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that no Tanzanian is denied treatment because of inability to pay.

“Today, we are launching a promise, a promise by the nation to every citizen that, from now on, no Tanzanian will be left to die simply because they have no money,” he said.

Mr Mchengerwa said citizens who can afford health insurance will contribute towards the cost, while the government will continue paying for those unable to do so.

“President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan promised Tanzanians a real smile, a mother’s relief at hearing ‘your child will recover’ without worrying about money. Through UHC, that promise is reaching households across the country,” he said.

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He said citizens can obtain insurance through the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) or private health insurance companies approved by the government and regulated by the Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA).

The available packages cater for different healthcare needs and financial abilities. One option is the Fahari Afya package, which costs 150,000/- annually for a household of up to six people.

It covers essential healthcare services from dispensary to national hospital level, subject to referral procedures, and is available through NHIF and approved private insurers.

The Minister urged citizens to understand the benefits and services covered by their chosen packages before enrolling, enabling them to make informed decisions based on their healthcare needs.

He said the expansion of UHC is accompanied by reforms at NHIF, including digital registration, verification and payment systems designed to make enrolment easier through mobile phones, agents and financial institution networks.

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