The new Governor General also spoke of the commitment of the government to creating a more modern, efficient and equitable health service. Greater impetus will be given to the commissioning of the new national hospital, continuing the transitioning of the Victoria Hospital to the Owen King EU Hospital in a phased manner.

It is the Government’s goal to complete this exercise within the coming fiscal year. He said that while Government continues to invest heavily in health care, many people are suffering poor health because of their inability to pay for essential health services. The National Health Insurance Scheme which the Government envisions, will assist in establishing a balance between financing of the health sector and providing people with access to health care services, without having to pay at the point of use. The National Health Insurance Bill will mandate health insurance coverage for all eligible persons, and will set out such matters as, eligibility for coverage, levels and payment of contributions, health services covered, and governmental responsibility for specified population groups.