Concerns Raised Over Vulnerability of Retirees Without Health Coverage
Senators in Rwanda have expressed significant concerns regarding private health insurance providers that terminate coverage for members upon retirement. This practice leaves many retirees vulnerable to high medical costs, which can undermine their financial security during their later years.
The issue was highlighted during a session of the Senate Committee on Social Affairs on October 20, where senators met with the Minister of Public Service and Labour, Christine Nkulikiyinka, to discuss the welfare of the elderly population in the country.
Senator Sosthène Cyitatire shared a personal anecdote, revealing that his wife, who holds private insurance through her employment at a bank, is anxious about losing her coverage once she retires. Fortunately, Cyitatire’s family is protected under RAMA, the public workers’ medical insurance scheme managed by the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB).
However, for retirees not covered by RAMA, the situation is dire. Cyitatire pointed out that while private sector employees may enjoy good benefits during their careers, their medical coverage often ceases immediately upon retirement. This abrupt termination can lead to financial strain as retirees may have to deplete their savings or struggle to access necessary healthcare services.
Moreover, some retirees, even those with substantial pensions, encounter challenges when trying to enroll in new insurance plans after reaching the age of 60 or 65. Private insurers frequently classify older individuals as high-risk, making it difficult for them to obtain coverage.
In light of these challenges, Cyitatire proposed that retired private sector workers who contributed to the pension fund managed by RSSB should also be eligible for medical insurance, provided they continue to pay the necessary contributions. He emphasized the psychological toll of uncertainty, stating, “A 60-year-old person who lives in fear cannot live longer,” referring to the anxiety retirees face regarding their insurance protection.
During the session, senators advocated for the development of sustainable, long-term plans that would ensure retirees are not left without critical health coverage when they need it most. They stressed the importance of creating a safety net for those who have dedicated their lives to work and contributed to the economy.
In response to the senators’ concerns, Minister Nkulikiyinka assured them that the government would take the issue into consideration and explore potential solutions. “The welfare of both public and private sector workers is our concern,” she stated, indicating that discussions would be held with RSSB to address the matter.
Legal Context
According to the 2015 law governing health insurance schemes in Rwanda, retirees covered by public health insurance, such as RAMA, continue to receive coverage after retirement. However, those with private or commercial insurance are subject to the terms of their contracts, which means their post-retirement coverage is not guaranteed.
This legal distinction raises questions about the adequacy of protections for retirees relying on private insurance, highlighting the need for reforms to ensure that all citizens have access to necessary healthcare throughout their lives.
Key Points
- Senators express concerns over private insurers dropping coverage for retirees.
- Retirees face high medical costs and financial insecurity without insurance.
- Personal anecdotes highlight the anxiety surrounding loss of coverage.
- Proposals for sustainable health plans for retirees discussed.
- Government to consider solutions for improving retirees' health coverage.
- Legal framework currently favors public insurance over private options.
Sources: Senators push private medical insurers to cover pensioners