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Leonard Ncube
The Association of Healthcare Funders of Zimbabwe (AHFoZ) has expressed concern over the low uptake of medical health insurance by Zimbabweans who ordinarily prefer to
invest in life cover.
Speaking at the ongoing 15th edition of the AHFoZ Annual Conference in Victoria Falls, AHFoZ chief executive officer Mrs Shylet Sanyanga said only 1,6 million of Zimbabweans,
about 10 percent of the population have medical aid cover.
She said not taking health cover burdens the Government which then carries the costs of primary healthcare on ordinary citizens.
Mrs Sanyanga called for a change in culture saying in most cases it is not about lack of capacity by citizens but lack of interest and sometimes lack of information.
“One of our recommendations is a change of culture whereby people are prepared to take funeral cover instead of insuring their health. It puts a burden on the Government.
People should have medical aid,” said Mrs Sanyanga.
She said there are 36 medical aid societies registered under AHFoZ from where people can choose their cover.
Speaking virtually, health economist Professor Albert Makochekanwa, who is director of the Business School at the University of Zimbabwe, reiterated that health insurance and
social protection were very low in Zimbabwe, with only 13,6 percent of the population under social protection.
He said challenges such as poverty, economic situation, low income per capita, and other issues make medical aid a less priority for ordinary citizens who prefer to go for basics,
accommodation, and others on the priority list.
The conference, which ends on Saturday, is being held under the theme: “Zooming in on Health Outcomes – Making the Main Thing the Main Thing.”
Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, is expected to be the guest of honour at the official opening ceremony of the conference today.
Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu