Jersey government weighs up private health scheme idea

February 26, 2026 - 18:36

The Government of Jersey is actively exploring the potential creation of a private health insurance scheme, a move signaled by the island's Chief Minister. While the existing public health system would remain in place, the proposed model is being considered as a possible additional component to the island's healthcare landscape.

The Chief Minister indicated the idea is under serious review, stating he believes a private scheme could become "part of the mix" for Jersey residents. The concept aims to provide islanders with more choice and could potentially alleviate pressure on public health services. Proponents suggest it might offer faster access to certain elective treatments and specialist consultations.

Discussions are at an early stage, with no formal proposals or detailed plans yet presented to the States Assembly. The government emphasizes that any future system would need to be carefully designed to ensure equity and maintain the core principle of a comprehensive public health service. The debate is expected to involve extensive scrutiny of how such a scheme would be regulated, its affordability for residents, and its overall impact on the standard of healthcare across the island.