National Health Insurance is community-based health insurance that covers those not eligible for
employer-based insurance, in particular agricultural workers, self-employed individuals, and retirees, as
well as their dependents. In March 1997 there were 3,249 municipal plans, and 166 separate national
health insurance associations that served separate categories of craftspeople. These plans enrolled 34.7
percent of the population in 1997. The health services covered are generally the same as those for
employer-based insurance; however, patient cost-sharing is higher, and cash benefits are usually
somewhat more limited than those provided under employer-based insurance. Contributions vary from
community to community and are based on individuals’ income and assets. In the absence of an
employer, the state pays 50 percent of the costs under the municipal plans and from 32 to 52 percent for
the craft-based plans.