Kuwait passed a health insurance law for pensioners, most of whom are elderly. This marked a significant achievement, offering the elderly general health services and access to private sector care. The program, called "Afya” (meaning "Well-Being”), gave these pensioners much-needed support. However, this benefit was later revoked, leaving pensioners vulnerable once again.
As experienced individuals, the pensioners organized and formed a strong advocacy group fueled by Afya. Their battle with the Ministry of health began years ago, starting with criticism and complaints. They used social security platforms to spread awareness and rallying support. The struggle will likely continue until the pensioners win, as they are backed by younger generations. I know the people within the Ministry of Health. They are dedicated individuals who love their country, but they are caught between a rock and a hard place. They cannot disobey government decisions, yet they are overwhelmed by waves of both justified and unjustified criticism.
So, what is the solution? The best interim solution is to reinstate the pensioners’ insurance while exploring improvements to the law. Options could include having pensioners bear part of Afya’s cost without overburdening them or establishing a government-run insurance company to take on Afya’s responsibilities. At this stage, it’s crucial to avoid unnecessary distractions like suggesting new clinics, as Afya is already tied to ministry of health doctors. For many, Afya has become a vital source of financial support amidst rising costs, particularly the skyrocketing price of land, which remains a dream for Kuwaiti youth.
Afya not only supports pensioners but also benefits Kuwaiti doctors working in the private sector, many of whom also serve in the Health Ministry during the day. Any delay in reinstating Afya will weaken the private sector and harm the Ministry of Health’s reputation. In the long run, the Ministry risks undoing all its efforts to improve healthcare services under the pressure of Afya’s absence.
Economists concerned with state finances often speak about savings and waste. However, they must now contend with the pensioners’ movement, which holds considerable influence and insider knowledge. For the sake of social harmony, I hope a solution can be found that satisfies pensioners outside of the public sector, which seems unlikely to ever fully meet their needs.
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