The National Health Fund (NHF) significantly expanded its reach and coverage in 2025 by adding new screening benefits and chronic conditions, increasing the total number of illnesses covered to 24 while also increasing several subsidies on its NHFCard programme.
The NHFCard programme now serves more than 355,000 active beneficiaries, with total subsidy payments reaching approximately $10.3 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing reliance on the programme to support the health needs of Jamaicans.
By the end of March 2025, NHFCard holders gained access to subsidies for medications used in the treatment of cervical cancer and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), providing meaningful relief to individuals and families managing long-term medical costs associated with these conditions.
Throughout the year, the NHF also introduced new subsidies for critical screening tests. Electrocardiogram (ECG) was added with a subsidy of $1,750 annually for all ages, and mammogram was also added with a subsidy of $3,000 for persons aged 40–74.
According to NHF Chief Executive Officer Everton Anderson, “These benefits were welcomed by Jamaicans, as routine screening allows for earlier detection of disease, when treatment is often more effective, less invasive, and more affordable”. “Cervical, breast, and prostate cancers are among the leading causes of death in Jamaica, however, all three are highly treatable when detected early”, he added.
Further strengthening cancer care support, twelve new active pharmaceutical ingredients used in cancer treatment were added to the NHFCard subsidy list in 2025.
In addition to introducing new benefits, the NHF increased existing subsidies for pharmaceuticals used to treat six chronic conditions: arthritis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatic fever/heart disease, and sickle cell disease. Subsidies were also increased for diagnostic tests, including the PSA test now subsidised at $1,950. HbA1c testing, at $1,000 and the Breast Receptor Studies at $12,500.
“The expansion of the NHFCard in 2025 represents a critical step toward better health outcomes for Jamaicans,” said NHF Chief Executive Officer, Everton Anderson. “By investing in early detection, expanding coverage and maintaining strong service delivery, even in challenging circumstances, we are fulfilling our mandate to protect lives and support a healthier nation.”
With these achievements, the NHF continues to evolve its flagship NHFCard programme into a more comprehensive health benefit, reinforcing its role as a critical pillar of Jamaica’s public health system.