The mindset over healthcare reform must change, and a shared sacrifice is needed to achieve necessary improvements.

That is the view of Kevin Grant, the general secretary of the Bermuda Public Services Union, which has stated in the past that there is “an undeniable urgent need to address Bermuda’s ever-increasing cost of healthcare”.

In a statement after this year’s Throne Speech, the union added that it was “deeply concerned about government’s proposed timeline to implement its long-promised universal health coverage.

“The Union strongly advocates for the Government to not only tackle the runaway cost of healthcare, but to also address the healthcare inequalities that are preventing equal access to care.”

Mr Grant conceded that health reform is a huge issue and said it could not happen overnight, but added that he hopes for genuine consultation with “straight answers” and a willingness for a shared sacrifice.

“We have to have straight answers, and we have to be authentic in this particular aspect,” said Mr Grant.

Asked if that meant people are protecting their own interests, he added: “I mean, I'm going to want to protect what's mine, and I think that's sort of natural.

“But, it’s the mindset that has to happen and whether or not everyone wants to make that shared sacrifice. You remember that word? Shared sacrifice?”

The Government has committed to pursuing universal healthcare, although no timeline has been set.

“I'm only concerned about the timeline because I know that this particular issue of UHC is going to take some time to happen and the cost of healthcare is still rising.

“I think the Government is steadfast in making sure that it happens. But if it is going to happen, I would hope that it's done within five years.”