The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tibunemedia.net

IN a bid to modernise how government conducts its business, the National Insurance Board (NIB) is preparing to introduce the next phase of its multi-million dollar web based system allowing customers to access NIB services online.

During a press conference yesterday, Labour and National Insurance Minister Shane Gibson said: “I am pleased to announce that this year, our country can look forward to a significantly enhanced NIB system that will take customers from packed parking lots and long lines to the convenience of carrying out most transactions from the comfort of their home or on the go.”

Mr Gibson said the cost of the project was initially budgeted at $14m but the exact price could change once processes are mapped out and the system is implemented.

“In 2014, the board made continued progress with the implementation of a new multi-million dollar IT platform to update and modernise the administration of its insurance services,” Mr Gibson said.

“This process is almost complete. Once fully deployed, our new insurance system will offer all of the modern conveniences of electronic online transactions, making it easier for customers to submit claims, register, pay contributions and get information. The end result will be an improved and easier-to-use insurance system overall and one that places the user at the forefront.

“With the new system, we expect the majority of short-term benefit payments - such as maternity, sickness, injury and unemployment - to be deposited directly to the claimants’ bank account, eliminating the need for customers to visit NIB and stand on long lines for an inordinate amount of time. Similarly, employers will be able to request and receive letters of good standing via email or through the employer portal that will be rolled out this year. Both of these new features will significantly reduce waiting times and are yet another indication of this government’s commitment to enhance services for Bahamians.”

NIB will begin finalising its modernisation exercise on March 10. Elements of the system will be functioning on March 30.

The system will revert to manual for two weeks during the transition period, during which time customers will continue to receive their benefits.

NIB Director Rowena Bethel said the new system will allow employees to see if their employers are being delinquent with making their NIB contributions.

Despite the new emphasis on the digital system, she said no downsizing is expected, with employees expected to be redeployed if necessary and additional hiring made to help the organisation perform efficiently.

People will still be able to access the NIB’s services in person, with Ms Bethel saying such opportunities will continue to be particularly important to elderly people.