As Jamaica observes Child Month 2026 under the theme ‘Prioritise Our Children’s Mental Health: Strong Minds, Safer Future’, the National Health Fund (NHF) is highlighting its continued support for children’s physical and mental health with more than 30,000 claims for over 5,000 children supported in the last financial year, concluding in March 2026.

NHF paid out $124 million in subsidies under its NHFCard programme in the 2025/26 fiscal year, which represents about 71% of its costs, thereby helping to reduce the cost of treatment for families managing chronic conditions in children.

Epilepsy accounted for the largest share of claims at 36.1%, followed by asthma at 26.6% and diabetes at 13.9%. These conditions require ongoing treatment and can affect children’s daily routines, including school attendance and participation in normal activities.

The NHFCard also supports treatment for mental health conditions that may emerge during childhood and adolescence. Data shows that major depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) each accounted for 4.7% of claims, and psychosis 2.7%. 

NHF’s Chief Executive Officer, Everton Anderson, stated that consistent access to treatment is an important factor in supporting children’s overall well-being. He said, “Reducing the cost of medication and supplies helps families to maintain treatment, effectively lowering the financial barrier to specialised care and enabling parents to stay consistent with their child’s treatment plan.” 

The Fund is also reminding the public of its double subsidy benefit for children, which provides twice the standard discount on approved medications and medical supplies.

To qualify for the NHFCard, which now covers 28 chronic illnesses, children must be diagnosed with any of the covered conditions. The NHFCard can be used at participating pharmacies islandwide, with subsidies applied at the point of purchase.

The NHF is encouraging parents and caregivers to enrol eligible children on the NHFCard programme early, as consistent access to treatment supports healthier development.