A new chapter of protection and support has opened for Jamaica’s creative community as the first set of individuals received their health insurance cards under the Jamaica Entertainers and Creatives Insurance Plan (JECIP).

The initiative, introduced through a partnership between the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and Guardian Life Limited, provides health coverage for practitioners who are often outside the traditional employment structure.

Among the first recipients are David McDermott (Kukudoo), Shawn Ferguson, Billy Wilmot, George Nooks, Dr Amina Blackwood, Michelle Graham, Carlton Scarlet, Bunny Rose, Oniel Donegal, Christopher Smith, and Anthony Cameron.

“We signed a contract earlier which covered life and personal accident, but I felt it was incomplete and that we needed to cover health,” the Minister Olivia Grange noted. “So, today some of you are going to get your health cards… you can just go to the doctor, swipe your card, and that’s major.”

Grange described the plan as a “game changer”, noting that “no small island developing state or developing countries have instituted a similar programme…”

She said the plan provides comprehensive coverage, including hospitalisation, surgery, diagnostic services, prescription drugs, maternity, dental care and visits to the doctor, even overseas care.

The ministry’s e-Registry is central to accessing the benefit, with 4,552 individuals and 484 creative businesses already enrolled.

“Let me make it clear. The insurance plan is to cover all members of the e-Registry,” she said.

For his part, group president of life, health and pension at Guardian Life Eric Hosin noted that since November 2024, 3,715 creatives have already been covered for group life and personal accident insurance, and that 106 practitioners are now receiving their health cards under JECIP.