Phnom Penh (FN), Feb. 20 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that the value of the National Social Protection Programme does not lie in the amount of money spent but in ensuring that citizens genuinely benefit. He stressed that operators of the programme must guarantee that holders of equity cards, at-risk household cards, and National Social Security Fund (NSSF) cards receive the same standard of services.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Feb. 20) at the opening of the Cambodian Social Protection Week 2025 and launching of the National Social Protection Policy Framework 2024-2035 at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

On that occasion, Samdech Thipadei said that the Royal Government has already set a vision and policy direction for the continued construction and strengthening of Cambodia’s social protection system, especially the implementation of the National Social Protection Policy Framework 2024-2025.

Samdech Thipadei also instructed the Ministry of Health must ensure that all citizens, including those with equity cards, at-risk household cards, and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) cards, have timely access to essential healthcare services to prevent any barriers that could negatively impact the implementation of the Royal Government's priority policies moving towards the Universal Health Coverage in Cambodia.

In this regard, the premier also encouraged citizens to report any cases where healthcare providers fail to offer proper attention when using any of the aforementioned cards to access healthcare services.

“The value of the National Social Protection Programme is not measured in statistics or financial expenditure. Its true value lies in the tangible benefits received by citizens,” the premier underscored.

Through this statement, Premier Hun Manet sought to emphasise the importance of service quality. He stated that ensuring high-quality treatment—including proper medication, medical equipment, and facilities—must be a priority. He highlighted that health centres, district and provincial referral hospitals are the frontline service providers at the local level, alongside both private sector and state hospitals. Furthermore, he stressed that the code of conduct for healthcare providers must be consistently reinforced to prevent any discrimination against social security cardholders.

Samdech Thipadei further advised that state medical teams must remain vigilant, while private healthcare partners must also adhere to the established approach and code of conduct. He warned against discrimination, emphasising that medical treatment should not vary based on a patient’s financial status or whether they hold a social security card.

“The value of the National Social Protection Programme is not determined by funding levels but by its impact on the lives of the people,” the premier concluded.
=FRESH NEWS