Are Mothers Shortchanged by FNPF Medical Withdrawals?

A concerned father and husband is raising issues with the Fiji National Provident Fund’s (FNPF) medical withdrawal policy, claiming it unfairly discriminates against women and mothers. Rupeni Vatubuli’s recent struggle to obtain assistance when his wife underwent an emergency caesarean section at Oceania Hospital has brought this matter to light.

Mr. Vatubuli explained that he applied for a medical withdrawal from his FNPF general account after his wife’s surgery. This urgent procedure was necessary due to dangerously high blood pressure, which could have posed risks to both the mother and child. However, he was disheartened to learn from staff at the FNPF Plaza in Suva that such operations are not covered under the fund’s policy, with only services at Colonial War Memorial Hospital being eligible for reimbursement.

“I was shocked and disappointed when informed that maternity cases were not covered under the fund’s medical withdrawal scheme,” Mr. Vatubuli stated. He emphasized that the funds in the account are his savings, raising concerns about what he perceives as discrimination. “Women and mothers cannot access the best healthcare from a private hospital because FNPF doesn’t cover it,” he added, questioning the fairness of the policy.

Interestingly, Mr. Vatubuli pointed out that Colonial War Memorial Hospital frequently transfers caesarean patients to Oceania for surgery, highlighting a potential inconsistency in the policy’s application. He opted for Oceania Hospital to ensure the best care for his wife and newborn daughter, further exacerbating his frustrations with the current system.

In response to inquiries regarding the coverage of such medical procedures, FNPF stated that their medical withdrawal scheme is designed to support members in urgent, medically necessary treatments. They noted that life-threatening childbirth situations, such as emergency caesarean sections, might qualify for assistance if corroborated by proper medical documentation.

This situation sheds light on the broader implications of health policies on family care, particularly for expectant mothers. As the discussion surrounding this policy continues, it underscores the need for a review to potentially expand coverage parameters, ensuring that families can access the necessary healthcare without being hindered by restrictive policies.