About JADEP

The Jamaica Drug for the Elderly Programme (JADEP) provides a 100 per cent subsidy for specific drugs, covering 10 chronic illnesses, for all residents of Jamaica who are 60 years and over. The programme improves access to essential drugs for this age group.

Once an NHF Card holder reaches 60 years old they automatically qualify for JADEP benefits if they have any of the conditions that are covered by JADEP.

The NHFCard holder pays a fee to the pharmacy for dispensing the drugs. The fees are:

• $40 for one item on your prescription
• $80 for two items on your prescription
• $120 for three items on your prescription
• $160 for four items on your prescription
• $200 for five items on your prescription
• $240 for six items or more on your prescription

In the past, persons 60 and over had to specially apply for a JADEP card. However, the NHF no longer enrol persons for JADEP Cards only. Persons who still have only their JADEP cards, are still able to access JADEP benefits. These beneficiaries are encouraged to upgrade to the NHFCard and enjoy the expanded benefits available with the NHFCard. 

JADEP was launched by the Ministry of Health in 1996, and the NHF took over management of JADEP in 2003.