$9.4 Billion Spent for NCD Medications Under NHF

The National Health Fund (NHF) has expended approximately $9.4 billion on drugs for the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) since April 2024.

Ministry of Health and Wellness Minister, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, made the disclosure during a statement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (January 28).

He informed that $2.4 billion worth of medications was dispensed through Drug Serv pharmacies located in public hospitals and clinics, while $7.1 billion was paid out in subsidies under the Individual Benefits Programme, covering 52 per cent of medication costs for managing NCDs.

Dr. Tufton said that the Ministry remains steadfast in its responsibility as the vanguard for the health of the people of Jamaica.

“We are focused on developing and implementing national strategies for improving health, delivering effective quality health services, setting standards and regulations and carrying out essential public health functions while promoting inter-sectoral actions for health,” he pointed out.

While acknowledging that a healthy and stable population is needed to drive the country’s development, Dr. Tufton said the Ministry will continue to implement innovative programmes, like ‘Know Your Numbers’, to support the quest of realising the best health outcomes for all.