Namibia: Calls for PSEMAS replacement and administrative clarification

Former Health Minister Dr. Bernard Haufiku has called for the progressive replacement of the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme (PSEMAS) with a National Health Fund (NHF). Haufiku argued that the N$ 4 billion scheme is failing its members and lacks a proper board of governance. He proposed a phased implementation of the NHF, prioritizing pregnant women, children under five, people living with disabilities, war veterans, and citizens aged 60 and above.

Haufiku also criticized recent government announcements regarding the removal of co-payments at private facilities, noting that these decisions were made without stakeholder consultation and without adjusting the rates paid to primary healthcare providers, which have remained unchanged for 12 years.

In response to a high volume of inquiries regarding PSEMAS benefit limits and coverage, the Ministry of Health and Social Services has clarified that it does not oversee the scheme. Executive Director Penda Ithindi urged the public to direct all queries, feedback, and requests for clarification to the Ministry of Finance, which is responsible for the administration and decision-making of the medical aid scheme.