Relief to NHIF as some private hospitals reverse suspension
What you need to know:
- The privately owned hospital has reversed its decision, previously announced on February 29, to suspend services to NHIF cardholders amidst a disagreement with the Health Ministry over recent reforms in the insurance scheme.
Dar es Salaam. New developments have emerged in the deadlock between private hospitals operating in Tanzania and the government regarding proposed reforms in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the delivery of health services to patients, with some hospitals now opening their doors to NHIF cardholders.
TMJ Hospital in Tanzania has announced the immediate resumption of healthcare services for all members utilizing NHIF, bringing relief to beneficiaries of the insurance scheme.
The privately owned hospital has reversed its decision, previously announced on February 29, to suspend services to NHIF cardholders amidst a disagreement with the Health Ministry over recent reforms in the insurance scheme.
The decision to suspend services was prompted by concerns raised by many private hospitals, including TMJ, regarding the proposed lower rates that could potentially affect their ability to deliver quality service to patients.
On March 1, the Private Hospitals Advisory Board (PHAB) issued a statement reminding private healthcare facilities of their legal prerogative under Section 15 Regulation 32 of the Private Hospital (Regulation) Act 151. This regulation emphasizes the provision of medical services to all emergency patients and those already admitted, reaffirming the obligation of private hospitals to prioritize patient care regardless of their insurance status or financial situation.
Initially, seven private hospitals, including Aga Khan, TMJ, Kairuki, Regency, and Bochi, had declared the suspension of services to NHIF members effective March 1.
However, following discussions with the Ministry of Health, some hospitals, including TMJ and Bochi, have opted to resume all services immediately.
In a public announcement, TMJ Hospital Limited stated, "After carefully considering the speech of the Honorable Health Minister, which indicates the intention for affordable pricing and the Ministry's openness to discussion, we have agreed to negotiate with NHIF under the Ministry's guidance while continuing to provide services to all NHIF beneficiaries with immediate effect."
Similarly, Bochi Hospital Limited issued a public notice informing its customers and the general public of its decision to reverse the suspension of services to NHIF members. The notice mentioned that patients admitted to the ICU and HDU using NHIF cards would continue to receive treatment.
Minister of Health Ummy Mwalimu welcomed the hospitals' decision to reverse the suspension and reiterated the government's commitment to engaging private hospitals in finding an amicable resolutio
