The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has recommended stricter regulations to govern the National Social Protection Agency's (NSPA) medical assistance processes to reduce risks of corruption.
In its newly released "Corruption Risk Assessment of the Health Welfare System" report, the ACC urged reforms in both the Aasandha insurance system and NSPA to combat potential corruption and illicit financial gains. The report highlights several concerns, particularly the discriminatory practices in the distribution of medical assistance by NSPA.
The ACC found that NSPA frequently disburses aid based on documents reviewed by a special committee appointed by the agency. However, in many instances, assistance is granted without sufficient time to verify the submitted documents properly, sometimes within minutes or even before all required paperwork is received. This lack of thorough verification increases the risk of corruption, the report noted.
Moreover, the ACC’s report revealed through focus group interviews that an influential third party is often involved in the assistance process, contributing to uneven service delivery and denying many recipients their rightful benefits.
Although existing regulations dictate the proper process, political interference has created a perception that third-party involvement, often through elected or appointed officials, is necessary to expedite services. This practice has led to corruption, the ACC stated.
To tackle these issues, the ACC recommended strengthening NSPA’s application verification procedures and establishing clear guidelines for the process. The commission also proposed the introduction of an online portal for applicants to submit and track their requests, allowing greater transparency. Additionally, the ACC suggested setting thresholds for assistance based on the type of medical treatment and the applicant's financial situation.
The recommendations aim to create a more transparent and fair system that prevents abuse and ensures equal access to medical assistance for all citizens.
