When the Cameroon government launched the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program last year, 2023, the goal was to ensure health for all. Everyone gets access to the health services they need, when and where they need them, without breaking the bank [1]. Since then, healthcare, public health workers, and other multisector partners have been busy advocating, raising awareness, and encouraging the population to register.
This year, 2024, a health voucher initiative for pregnant women under UHC Phase 1 has been implemented in some regions of Cameroon. However, the health voucher was implemented lately for those in the Northwest and Southwest regions [2]. Why the health vouchers? Pregnant women are one of the priority targets under UHC Phase 1. With the high maternal and infant mortality rates, and the low utilization of maternal and infant healthcare services, the health voucher will help improve access to obstetric and neonatal care [2]. The health voucher for pregnant women costs 6,000 FRS.
With 6,000 FRS, pregnant women will benefit from free follow-ups during pregnancy until delivery, ultrasounds, and care after birth for mother and child for up to 42 days in any Integrated Health Center (IHC) or accredited health facilities [2]. District or regional hospitals are referrals for any cesarean section (C-section) or other complications that arise during follow-ups and delivery. Another benefit is transportation for pregnant women. However, transportation must be for delivery or complication-related emergency purposes. Hopefully, pregnant women’s transportation to antenatal and postnatal appointments could be included later in the UHC phase 2 package.
Please keep in mind that the 6,000 FRS is not a one-time fee. A pregnant woman or women of reproductive age pay 6,000 FRS for every pregnancy.
The health voucher initiative for the Northwest and Southwest regions will take effect after the launching ceremony by the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, in August 2024 [3]. Women of reproductive age who are not pregnant can also buy the health voucher now and activate it when they become pregnant [3].
I encourage every pregnant woman to enroll in UHC Phase 1. If you have not done so, pay your social contributions, the 6,000 FRS, and enjoy the benefits.
References
2. Minsante Cameroon. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Universal Health Coverage Word Doc.
3. Synthia Mukwelle. Regional Focal Point, Communication. RDPH-SW
4. Credit Image: Minsante Cameroon
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