Karachi: The Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI) has announced significant policy changes regarding worker contributions and healthcare services, as declared by Commissioner Miandad Rahoojo. Among the changes, SESSI will now require workers' contribution payments from the date of registration, and the audit mechanism for registered units is being revised. Additionally, an increase in the number of SESSI dispensaries in the SITE area has been announced.

According to S.I.T.E Association of Industry, the announcements were made during a visit by Mr. Rahoojo to the SITE Association of Industry members. The Commissioner, accompanied by several SESSI officials, addressed various issues, including a new arbitration process before the issuance of notices to registered units and measures against officers conducting multiple visits in a year. In response to complaints about healthcare services at the SESSI Valika Hospital, Mr. Rahoojo acknowledged the deficiencies and outlined steps for improvement, including the formation of Hospital Management Committees with financial authority and arrangements for better quality medicines.

The Commissioner also revealed plans for constructing a cancer hospital near Valika Hospital and upgrading dispensaries in interior Sindh to hospitals. An inquiry into the misuse of the Mazdoor Card is underway, with recommendations for linking family trees to the card chip and printing organization names on the cards. Mr. Rahoojo emphasized that 70% of SESSI’s budget is allocated to healthcare services for registered workers, despite challenges in service quality.

During the meeting, SITE Association President Ahmed Azeem Alvi and other industry representatives expressed support for SESSI's initiatives while voicing concerns over issues like impersonation of SESSI officers, harassment by field staff, and the need for improved service delivery. Suggestions included providing relief in contribution payments for employers offering health insurance and focusing on making Valika Hospital a model for others.

The discussions highlighted the industry's expectations for positive changes under the leadership of Commissioner Rahoojo, with hopes for enhanced healthcare services and streamlined processes for worker contribution and registration.