The Minister of Health, the Hon. Kim N. Wilson JP MP, today thanked the public and all stakeholders for their continued dialogue and participation in the public consultation on the Bermuda Health Plan. The Minister acknowledged the upcoming town hall by the community group, Patients 1st Bermuda, noting that as she is overseas on essential government business, regrettably, she will not be able to participate.
Minister Wilson said, "We are very pleased with the level of community engagement in this public consultation. We have held more than 45 meetings to date with over 500 participants, and are receiving a steady flow of queries and comments to the healthplan@gov.bm inbox. This feedback is invaluable in helping to shape the next steps, and we welcome all views and perspectives."
The Ministry of Health reminds the public that questions and comments received through official channels are being posted on its website, together with responses, at: www.gov.bm/health-plan-consultation-qa.
In addition to providing factual answers to all questions on its website, the Ministry (below) reminds the public of important facts to dispel misinformation circulating on social media. The public is encouraged to email healthplan@gov.bm if you have concerns.
Minister Wilson said, "It is regrettable that I am not on Island to participate in this important town hall by Patients 1st Bermuda. I hope it generates the fruitful dialogue we have seen from most stakeholders, so we can continue to receive constructive feedback to improve access and sustainability for all of Bermuda".
HEALTH PLAN FACTS
1. Final decisions will not be made upon the conclusion of the public consultation. Rather, this will mark the beginning of the deep-dive by working groups to design both the benefit plan and the transition roadmap. A broad cross section of stakeholders will be at the table throughout.
2. The benefit plan has not been decided. The consultation process has allowed us to hear valuable feedback about the mock plan (e.g. insufficient prescription drug coverage, allied health omission, primary care model unpopular, etc.). The working groups will consider the public feedback and develop the final recommendations.
3. Payments models, fee levels and reimbursement have not been finalized. The consultation period is providing important feedback and working groups will consider a range of options.
4. Working groups will be established when the public consultation period is concluded. They will be made up of healthcare providers, employers, insurers and patient representatives. The working groups is where the real work will happen and recommendations will be made.
5. Reform can create opportunity rather than uncertainty. The government wants to improve access and sustainability. We see patients, healthcare providers, insurers and employers as part of the solution. Fall 2020 will not bring an overhaul of our health system or the way healthcare is practiced. The intent is to start with small steps, and stakeholders will help determine what they should be and how to phase a multi-year transition to achieve improved access and sustainability.