Health Insurance Cards Ease Burden for Vulnerable Families in Busoni

In an internally displaced persons (IDP) site in Busoni near the Rwanda border, access to healthcare has long been a struggle for families living on the edge of survival. For many, daily income barely covers food, leaving little or nothing for medical expenses when illness strikes.

A recent distribution of health insurance cards by RESTOBU is beginning to change that reality for some of the most vulnerable residents.

Euphrasie, a returnee from a refugee camp abroad, says the support has been life-changing. “We received a health insurance card. I am very thankful, I was in misery. The card has helped my returnee family,” she said.

The cards, allow 600 vulnerable individuals in Busoni to access to medical services that were previously out of reach. In a region where malaria is common, residents say the ability to seek treatment without immediate payment is critical.

Joselyne, a divorced mother of six, is one of the beneficiairies. At around 1 p.m. on a recent day, she returned from fieldwork to find her child with a high fever. With household income already spent on food, she turned to the insurance card to access care.

“I leave my child well and find him sick. We earn little. After buying food, no money remains. Without the card, you can’t manage,” she said, calling for the program to be renewed.

Her neighbor Evelyne faced a similar situation the same day. Her child also fell ill, prompting her to rush to a nearby health facility using the card. “I will use the card again. My child is sick,” she said.

Regine, 73 years old, was met at home just after leaving the hospital where she had spent a week. The card reduced the cost of health care significantly.

I used it in several health centers, from here to Gasura, then Kanyina Hospital. Three radiographies were done; lungs and side checked. Thank you very much. Please renew it. It will expire 

For elderly residents, the support has also proven essential. Regine, 73, recently spent a week receiving treatment across several health centers, including diagnostic imaging. She says the card significantly reduced her medical expenses. “Thank you very much. Please renew it, it will expire,” she said.

Despite these benefits, many in the community remain without cards. John Bukuru, an 84-year-old widower, is among those who did not receive a card. “I beg you, please give me the card too,” he said.

The insurance cards are valid for one year and are due to expire this April. RESTOBU aims to renew the coverage and expand the program to reach more people, as needs continue to outpace available resources.