The National Health Fund (NHF) paid out $13.5 million in subsidies for individuals living with lupus in the last financial year.

NHF Chief Executive Officer, Everton Anderson said as of October 1, there were 1,705 people living with lupus, and enrolled in the card programme.

He said approximately 6,000 Jamaicans have been diagnosed, and are living, with lupus.

Mr. Anderson noted that the NHF has made it easier for this vulnerable group to access critical medication.