FAQ’s on National Drug Plan

Questions

Answers

1. Why do we need a Drug Plan?

To address the concerns of the community over:--

  • The problems caused by chronic diseases which affect 1 in 3 Bahamians (many with more than 1 condition) and limit their length and quality of life;
  • The lack of timely access by patients to ssential drugs to manage condition;
  • The financial burden facing patients, families, businesses and government in having to find the resources to treat the chronic diseases.

2. What are objectives of the Plan?
  • Treatment—To improve access to prescription drugs and supplies for use by patients;
  • Prevention—To provide funds for health promotion and wellness projects in community.

3. Which countries have similar plans?
  • In the Caribbean—Barbados; Jamaica; Trinidad and Tobago.
  • Internationally—Canada, Australia, UK (plans cover drugs for all conditions).

4. Who is eligible as members and how to register?
  • In Phase 1—NIB pensioners, invalids and children up to 18 years or up to 25 years if in full-time education.
  • In Future Phase(s)—Employed and self-employed persons; persons identified as poor; persons in government institutions and voluntary members.
  • Members must complete application form; be certified with the disease(s) by a registered physician and take form to nearest NIB Office to receive Plan card.
  • Application forms will be available from NIB offices, health centres, hospitals, pharmacies and doctor’s offices.

5. What diseases will be covered?
  • Arthritis; Asthma; Breast Cancer; Diabetes; Glaucoma; High Cholesterol; Major Depression; Hypertension; Ischaemic Heart Disease; Prostate Cancer; Psychosis.
  • This list will be amended over time.

6. What drug benefits will be provided? 

  • Quality cost effective drugs and medical supplies such as syringes and test strips which have recommended by Benefits Review Committee.
  • 93 items are included in list—this will be amended over time.

7. Which pharmacies can I go for the medications?
  • Public and private pharmacies will be contracted as providers.
  •  They must have business and pharmacy licenses and be up to date with payments to NIB.
  • Special attention will be given to members to get drugs in remote Family Islands.

8. Who will manage the Plan?
  • The Plan will be managed by NIB
  • NIB will put in place a strong IT system to manage membership; drug inventory; claims and timely payments; audits; fraud and abuse.
  • NIB will emphasise accountability and customer-oriented services.

9. How will the Plan be financed?
  • In Phase 1--funds will be provided by the NIB. There will be no cost to members.
  • In Future Phase (s)—there will be a mix of sources to provide the funds for the Plan. This includes a small payroll deductions from workers; government grant; coordination of benefits with private insurers and a small co-payment.

10. How will the prevention and wellness component work?
  • Community groups and organizations will be asked to submit well-designed project activities on health promotion, illness prevention, wellness and healthy lifestyles.
  • Projects will be sent to NIB and Ministry of Health for review, and if successful, funds will be made available for implementation.

10. When will the Plan start?
  • The start-up date will be announced by the government.