Kerala to enact comprehensive health insurance scheme

Thiruvananthapuram, July 19 (UNI) Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Issac told the Assembly today that a comprehensive health insurance package would be formulated this year as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare in the state.

Replying to discussions on the Kerala Finance Bill-2007, the Minister said the Central assistance under the scheme would be effectively utilised to strengthen the public healthcare system.

The new scheme would be entirely different from the one proposed by the previous United Democratic Front Government, he said addting the details of the scheme would be announced by the Health Minister.

Referring to the High Court order cancelling the entry tax proposed for some items, he said the government would enact a legislation in this regard.

Later, the Finance Bill was referred to the Subject Committee concerned.

UNI