The National Health Fund has moved to incorporate Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and cervical cancer among the 24 conditions covered under its NHF Card Programme, effective March 27.

Coverage includes:

• ADHD: The active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) methylphenidate for individuals of all ages diagnosed with ADHD. The subsidy for the Concerta 18 milligram tablet, is J$174.38.

• Cervical cancer: Subsidies on eight APIs used in the treatment of the condition, including bevacizumab, carboplatin, cisplatin, gemcitabine, filgrastim, paclitaxel injections, as well as dexamethasone and metoclopramide tablets. The available subsidies range from J$2.64 for a dexamethasone-PMS tablet 0.5mg to J$96,000 for a Bevacizumab 400mg/16ml injection. 

The NHF advised that further details can be found on its website.

Chief executive at the National Health Fund Everton Anderson explained that continuous expansion of the agency’s offers is important. 

“The NHF’s mission of improving access remains unchanged. With that in mind, we are always assessing the health landscape, considering the cost of care, and listening to the recommendations of key stakeholders in order to devise new ways to improve access, ease financial burden, and ultimately contribute to better health and economic outcomes. The expansion of coverage is evidence of this. We implore all prospective beneficiaries to enrol and utilise the services available to assist in managing their illnesses.”

Jamaican residents diagnosed with any of the 24 covered conditions may apply for an NHFCard by submitting a completed application form, signed by their physician, to the nearest NHF Card Centre, island-wide.

Notably, with the expansion, the NHFCard Programme now provides greater support for cervical cancer prevention and management. Since June 2024, women aged 21 to 64 are eligible for a J$1,300 subsidy on a Pap smear test every three years, while high-risk women can access the subsidy annually.

To enhance accessibility, the NHF invited doctors and laboratories to join its provider network and help increase access points across Jamaica for Pap smears.