A healthcare coverage extension for vulnerable woman approved by legislators in 2021 has been clarified in the House of Assembly to explicitly cover the underinsured along with the uninsured.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, called the Health Insurance Amendment Act 2023 a “clarifying amendment” brought before MPs at the recommendation of lawyers to close the “coverage gap” for maternity benefits and maternity education for both categories of expectant mothers.

It follows 2021 legislation that was approved by both sides of the House enhancing benefits under the Health Insurance Plan using a portion of the Mutual Reinsurance Fund premium to fund maternity care for roughly 130 vulnerable women.

The amendment was passed yesterday after a short debate.