The Ministry of Finance is reinforcing its oversight regarding payments under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Free Medical Scheme to address concerns about misuse and delays. While the majority of General Practitioners (GPs), dental clinics, and medical laboratories are receiving payments on time, some claims have surfaced showing discrepancies, including instances of overcharging. Consequently, payments are currently on hold until these claims can be thoroughly verified and reconciled.
Under the PPP framework, FijiCare Insurance Limited is responsible for authorizing payments, ensuring that all claims are accurate and reflect the services provided. The Ministry of Finance closely examines each claim to uphold accountability and mitigate the risk of overcharging. Generally, payments are processed within 10 to 14 days when no issues arise. However, any discrepancies or delayed responses from GPs can prolong this timeline.
The Ministry has underscored the critical nature of this verification process, aiming to protect public funds and maintain the integrity of the medical scheme. Payments for August have already been disbursed, and efforts are being made to expedite payments for September. To enhance compliance, the Ministry is actively engaging with service providers to increase their awareness of payment procedures and timelines.
There have been reports of certain GPs allegedly refusing to see patients under the scheme, which the Ministry has labeled as unacceptable. Should these claims be proven true, appropriate measures will be implemented.
The government continues to affirm its commitment to ensuring that all eligible Fijians have access to quality health services through the PPP Free Medical Scheme. This initiative demonstrates a dedicated effort to enhance the healthcare sector despite prior challenges discussed by officials. By improving governance and fostering better communication, there is hope that this program will evolve positively, further improving healthcare access for communities throughout Fiji.