An insurance policy signed between the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and Parnell Assurance PNG will enable easier upfront access to those benefits for police personnel than was previously available.
Commissioner of Police, David Manning, said the new insurance policy overcomes difficulties in past coverage that required the up-front payment of medical bills in full to later seek 80 to 90 per cent reimbursements.
“Previous insurance policies had been unfair for personnel in that treatment was being delayed, but rapid access to healthcare is something for which delays are not acceptable,” the Commissioner said.
“With the new policy, all members of the Constabulary will be issued with cards which they will present at affiliated medical institutions for medical treatment without being expected to pay anything upfront.
“Now our more than 6,000 police personnel have clear information on the health benefits to which they are entitled and have easier and faster access to these benefits.”
Commissioner Manning said the new agreement provides access to medical services and life insurance, with the policy being in force from July 31 until July 2026, at which time it will be reviewed.
“This health insurance card concept will be the first of its kind for the police personnel to access health insurance at the designated hospitals and clinics across the country.
“We have also commenced talks to also include mental health services as part of insurance coverage, this is important considering the gruesome tasks to which police often have to attend.
“A healthy police force is an effective police force with higher dedication, but a lack of attention to healthcare by successive governments has been a factor that undermined morale in the force.
“That was not good enough when we have our men and women in uniform going out each day placing their safety on the line for the protection of our people. A career in the force must add value to the lives of personnel and their legal dependents.”
Mr Manning made the point that the policy comes as a result of the Marape-Rosso government’s escalated support to the police force, particularly at a time when the RPNGC is seeking to retain the most effective policemen and women, and recruit thousands more into the force.
“The police force is competing with other employers to attract suitable candidates, and we have taken deliberate steps to ensure we offer the right environment for quality police officers.
“As Commissioner I have directed policy and administrative reforms aimed to address the welfare issues and modernise the police force going forward.
“With the support of the Marape-Rosso government, we have been able to address many critical issues affecting the constabulary. This includes this healthcare insurance policy as well as better uniforms, additional vehicles, and overall working conditions. We know there is still a lot of work to be done such as improving housing and benefits.
“I call on all police force personnel to make use of this healthcare support that includes undergoing annual medical checks to monitor their health status.
“The RPNGC is an organisation that is committed to ensuring we provide the best possible conditions for our members, and their legal dependents,” Mr Manning said.