- Health insurance coverage in Oman grew 23% in the first half of 2023, reaching 555,000 individuals – a significant increase demonstrating strong demand for protection and healthcare access.
- Authorities are promoting inclusive policies like a unified baseline plan and specialized riders for domestic workers to broaden coverage and cater to diverse demographic groups.
- Standardizing frameworks and simplifying processes aim to facilitate easier access to services while maintaining quality and resolving issues, as total insurance premium income saw over 17% year-on-year growth in 2022.
Oman’s health insurance sector continues to grow rapidly, with the latest figures showing coverage has expanded to reach over half a million individuals. According to data from the Capital Market Authority (CMA), the number of people with health insurance in the sultanate grew by a substantial 23% in the first half of 2023 to hit 555,000.
This significant increase demonstrates strong ongoing demand from Omanis and residents looking to gain access to quality healthcare. Having medical insurance provides vital protection and allows people to avail of treatment options offered by both public and private providers for illnesses or injuries. The expanding coverage underscores efforts by authorities to promote inclusive insurance schemes catering to diverse parts of the population.
One such initiative is a unified baseline health insurance policy incorporating additional specialized riders targeted at specific demographic groups. For example, a policy variant has been introduced exclusively for domestic workers. At the same time, the standard plan is now readily available for private sector employees regardless of nationality.
Simplifying the insurance process and standardized policy structures are aimed at facilitating easier access to healthcare services. The CMA explained their “main objective is ensuring quality, regulating relationships between all parties involved transparently to minimize disputes and preserve rights.” Additionally, total insurance premium income saw year-on-year growth of over 17% in 2022 to reach RO 191 million, highlighting the sector’s continuing positive trajectory.
Going forward, Oman’s insurance authorities will focus on championing inclusive policies to provide coverage for diverse populations while maintaining affordability. Standardizing frameworks is also pivotal to streamline customer experiences and resolve issues seamlessly. As health insurance uptake expands further across Omani communities, it cements the country’s position as a leader in promoting inclusive and accessible healthcare systems across the GCC region.
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