Determining the cost of universal health insurance is a complex matter and will require expert analytical support and time to undertake. My officials will be progressing the necessary work in this regard during 2014. I should make it clear that I am committed to developing and implementing a cost effective system of UHI that is affordable and complies fully with Government expenditure targets.
In relation to the timeframe for the introduction of UHI, the position is that the Cabinet had an initial discussion on the White Paper on Universal Health Insurance last week. The issue will return to Cabinet in the coming weeks with a view to publication of the White Paper very quickly thereafter. This will be followed by an extensive public consultation on the overall approach, including, in particular, the standard package of services to be covered under UHI. It is my intention to have all the necessary groundwork for UHI in place in early 2016 and to then proceed to have the new system implemented by 2019.