Medical referral program allocated $380K funding
The suspension of the Health Network Program’s subsistence benefits was short lived with the CNMI government working in tandem to appropriate $380,000 to continue to provide these essential benefits to patients and escorts who are sent off-island for medical treatment.
In a press release from the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. yesterday, they announced that subsistence benefits will continue for beneficiaries of HNP (formerly known as the Medical Referral Program).
This is thanks to allocations from Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation totaling $380,000.
“The Health Network Program continues subsistence benefits for its beneficiaries, thanks to the recent allocation of necessary funds from the Office of the Governor and the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation. This development follows productive discussions between Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. CEO Esther L. Muña and Gov. Arnold I. Palacios,” said CHCC.
According to CHCC, Palacios confirmed the transfer of $80,000 to support the HNP, while SNILD unanimously voted to pass House Local Bill 23-62 that approves an additional appropriation of $300,000 to HNP during a regular session yesterday.
Aside from funding HNP, HLB 23-62 appropriated funds to other government programs totaling $2.5 million.
“These funds will enable the program to continue providing critical assistance to its beneficiaries,” said CHCC.
During their recent meeting, Muña and Palacios also discussed long-term strategies to ensure the sustainability of the HNP.
“Both leaders expressed optimism about these solutions and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to promote the health and well-being of the CNMI community,” said CHCC.
In addition to HNP, HLB 23-62 appropriated $1.65 million to Saipan Higher Education Financial Assistance provided that $250,000 is reserved for SHEFA personnel and operations.
In addition, HLB 23-62 has appropriated $850,000 that will be split between the Saipan Mayor’s Office, the Northern Islands Mayor’s Office, the Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council, the Saipan Zoning Office, the Center for Living Independently, Marianas Alliance of Non-Governmental Organization, Office of Management and Budget, the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, payment for arrears to Hawaiian Rock Products, Northern Marianas Islands Basketball Federation, Marianas Racing Association, the 38th anniversary for the 13 Fisherman Monument, FSM Independence Day Celebration, and Cultural Heritage Month.
The appropriation of $60,000 for Cultural Heritage Month will be split between the Indigenous Affairs Office and the Carolinian Affairs Office.
Esther L. Muna
Arnold I. Palacios
