Frem and Economic Bodies Discuss Framework to Maintain Effective Health Protection for Private Sector Workers

Lebanese economic bodies convened a meeting chaired by former Minister Mohammad Choucair at the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon, with Deputy Neemat Frem and members of economic bodies in attendance.

Discussions primarily focused on the shortcomings of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) in providing healthcare for private sector workers and employees. This has led employers and private institutions to procure adequate health insurance for their staff through private insurance companies or cooperative institutions, enabling coverage for medical expenses and hospitalization.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the participants emphasized that this situation results in additional expenses for both private institutions and workers, as they must pay NSSF contributions for healthcare and maternity, in addition to the cost of private health insurance for the same services.  However, in practice, wage earners in most regions do not benefit from NSSF advantages. 

Expressing concern, they warned that this reality may prompt many employers and institutions to cease financing private health insurance services due to the increased NSSF contributions approved by the Social Security Board and by decree. This, they cautioned, would effectively deprive wage earners of real and effective health coverage, thereby exposing their lives to real danger.

The participants agreed to establish a framework to address this situation with all relevant parties, including deputies and labor unions, to ensure the actual health protection of all workers and employees in the private sector.