The National Health Insurance (NHI) Office has begun the reimbursement of benefit claims as a function of the system.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton presented a cheque to Mr. Richard Lake, the first individual to be compensated via the NHI system on February 1.

Minister Skelton stated, “We are doing this to let people know that the NHI is working and will be one of the best insurance systems for health care in the Virgin Islands and may be an example for other countries to adopt.”

Honourable Skelton added, “Yes, we might go through teething problems but we are committed to solving those problems and make sure that the people of the Virgin Islands get the best health care they possibly can.”

Mr. Lake who is registered with NHI visited the ophthalmologist before receiving his NHI card and opted to pay out of pocket and filed his claim instead.

All persons are reminded that all forms that include the registration forms and contributions forms for employers can be collected from the NHI Office at the Social Security Board (SSB) Joshua L. Smith Building in Road Town, Tortola; the SSB office in Virgin Gorda at the Vanterpool Administration Building; or online at www.vinhi.vg.