“Expensive healthcare and medical treatment are the biggest threats to the well-being and welfare of retirees in Jamaica,” noted Professor Sir Kenneth Hall at the launch of a unique new health plan for members of the CCRP (Caribbean Community of Retired Persons). Noting the attendance of hundreds at the Police Officers’ Club on Wednesday, August 14, he commented that was “without a doubt a watershed moment... I am proud, delighted and honoured to launch this plan."
Sir Kenneth, who is also an honorary board member of the CCRP, has supported the non-governmental seniors-advocacy organisation since its inception nine years ago. He lauded CCRP, CGM Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, designers of the plan and underwriters Sagicor Life for conceptualising an affordable package to meet the needs of seniors. Such initiatives, he said, acknowledge "the invaluable contribution that these fellow citizens have made in building this nation.”
State Minister in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security the Hon. Zavia Mayne brought greetings on behalf of Minister Shahine Robinson. In his address, the State Minister shared statistics from STATIN (the Statistical Institute of Jamaica) which highlight the fact that since 2018, 11% of the Jamaican population is 50 years or older. As a result of increasing life expectancy, the State Minister noted: “It becomes very critical that we ensure that our population of retirees are able to afford health care... The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is in full support of the work of the CCRP as it continues to bridge the nexus between retirement and health.”
The CCRP comprehensive health insurance plan will have island-wide enrollment events next week as follows:
Central Jamaica – Tuesday, August 20 at St Mark’s Anglican Church Hall, Mandeville Parish Church, Market Street
Northeast Jamaica – Thursday, August 22 at the St. Ann Chamber of Commerce, Pineapple Place, Ocho Rios
Western Jamaica – Saturday, August 24 at Unity of Montego Bay Church Hall, 12 Dome Street
Thereafter, enrollment will continue until November 30 at CGM Gallagher’s offices.