The Fiji National Provident Fund is in the process of developing medical insurance for its members, however, for now, it will not focus on pensioners.
While speaking at the FNPF Annual Member Forum, FNPF General Manager Development and Research Millie Low says they are exploring medical insurance for members.
She says they are finalising a consultant to help design a medical insurance scheme.
While responding to a question on the age of people who will be able to get medical insurance, Low says a medical insurance cover is generally for anyone below the age of 65.
She says that would form part of the discussion and they would be guided by what insurance companies are able to provide.
The General Manager adds that as people grow older, the risk of illness increases and that is something they hope to address with the consultant by examining the details of medical insurance, including the types of coverage and whether it will include primary or tertiary healthcare.
While responding to a question on elderly care homes development by FNPF, Chief Investment Officer Naibuke Saune, once the groundwork on their medical investments is finalised, they will be in a better position to roll out these additional initiatives.
While responding to a question on Aspen Medical, Saune says the Fund is working with government and the Australian medical partners to find a feasible long term solution, with government as the primary provider of the payment mechanism at Lautoka and Ba Hospitals under the PPP agreement.
He says they are also exploring services for private patients, not only in Fiji but across the region.
Saune says from an investment perspective, there are clear benefits in strengthening the medical system, not only for our people but also for the tourism sector.
He says these are foundational issues that must be addressed first before establishing caregiving facilities or retirement villages.
