The Ministry of Health only funds the medical costs for trips taken to New Zealand and India while visas remain the responsibility of the patient and their family.

The Acting Director General of Health, Atoa Dr. Glenn Fatupaito said many people were unaware that even the patient's fare to New Zealand has to be borne by the family.

He said for the India trip, the Ministry is looking to cover the paitent's airfares.

Atoa hoped this would address future confusion and complications to save lives. 

This initiative, designed to facilitate essential medical care for Samoan citizens abroad, sheds light on the challenges and strategies within healthcare tourism.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Dr. Fatupaito said: "Patients apply for their visa, and the Medical Overseas Care (OBT) focuses on treatment oversight, liaising with medical professionals abroad, such as Dr. Benjamin in New Zealand."

"So, for now, like for New Zealand, the patients apply for their visa. The OBT side only deals with the treatment part like overseeing their cases, speaking with the committee, and arranging with Dr. Benjamin in New Zealand who set the appointment.

"But outside of that, like visas, airfares, the patients handle them and that's part of the responsibilities of the patients and their families as per our OBT protocols. So all visa costs are handled by the families such as passports."

Asked whether there were any exceptions for patients that need urgent medical assistance overseas, but will take them longer to process their papers, Dr. Fatupaito said 'no' but they do make recommendations.

"No but what we can do is provide support like, we can't do that to immigration but it's all done by the patients and their families," he said

"Because we have a small unit here, that deals with a multi-million dollar portfolio but we only have like three girls who take care of the whole portfolio."

Emphasizing patient responsibility, he added, "Visas, airfares, and logistical arrangements fall under the purview of patients and their families, aligning with OBT protocols."

Responding to queries regarding urgent cases, Dr. Fatupaito clarified, "While we provide recommendations, immigration matters remain the responsibility of patients and their families."

Acknowledging operational constraints, Dr. Fatupaito remarked, "Our small administrative unit manages a substantial portfolio, a testament to our dedication amidst resource limitations."

Drawing parallels between pathways to New Zealand and India, Dr. Fatupaito revealed ongoing efforts to establish a dedicated pathway to India, noting, "Samoa intends to cover patient airfare to India, while patients finance accompanying relatives' travel."

Highlighting financial dynamics, he explained, "While New Zealand-bound patients bear all travel costs, the government covers treatment and accommodation expenses in India, emphasizing cost-effective options."

Dr. Fatupaito underscored government support in healthcare access, stating, "Treatment and medication costs are government-covered, encouraging patients to stay with family for affordability."

Concluding with insights into financial arrangements, Dr. Fatupaito affirmed, "Patients cover accompanying relatives' expenses in India, including hospital admission and accommodation costs."

Meanwhile, this discourse provides a comprehensive view of Samoa's OBT program, where patient empowerment intertwines with government assistance in navigating healthcare tourism.