Government reviewing free medical scheme

Fiji's government is undertaking a comprehensive review of its Free General Practitioner Partnership Program and Laboratory Partnership Program. The initiative aims to improve efficiency, accountability, and long-term sustainability of these vital healthcare schemes.

The review was prompted by ongoing irregularities identified in claims submitted by service providers. Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel informed Parliament that between 20 and 25 percent of invoices are returned each week due to inaccuracies. These anomalies, along with a lack of due diligence from some providers, have led to delays in payments from the government.

Immanuel emphasized that the payment delays are not due to a lack of government commitment but stem from issues with the claims themselves. He highlighted several concerns, including expired annual practicing licenses among doctors at approved clinics and claims for services not covered under agreements. Unethical billing practices, such as charging for both consultation and review on the same day or billing for services like ultrasound scans, have also been noted.

The review encompasses potential restructuring options and the possibility of integrating some functions into the Ministry of Health to strengthen service delivery. While claims without discrepancies are typically processed within 10 to 14 days, payment timelines can extend when anomalies are detected or when practitioners are slow to provide clarifications. The government is committed to ensuring only legitimate and accurate claims are paid.

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However, these delays are not due to a lack of commitment by the government to honour its financial obligation. Rather, they are a result of anomalies and lack of due diligence from some service providers themselves.