These people who often struggle with serious health problems have the right to receive such a card.

Shantie Changoer told Times of Suriname that he visited the office of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing (Sozavo) and that he saw many people who were in tears when they left the Office. Although those people have a statement from the doctor to confirm that they have been diagnosed with a chronic disease, they still can't get a basic health insurance card. The requests for a basic health insurance card are sent to the main office in Paramaribo for screening and approval but Changoer finds its regrettable that the ministry does not cooperate.

Changoer explained that people with a doctor's statement should receive their card stat. He pointed out that it would be better to let these screening take place in the Nickerie District so that applicants can receive help faster. It is also a long process to get an extension for one’s card as this could take many months. People who don't have a card and who often also do not have a job can't afford to pay the doctor and buy medicines. They therefore stay home without any access to medical treatment and medicines. MP Stephen Madsaleh has often pleaded for decentralization of certain procedures and he also wants the screening to take place in the  Nickerie District to speed things up.