The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has unveiled plans to expand the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to cover all illnesses in Ghana by the year 2030. Currently, the scheme provides coverage for about 95% of disease conditions.The Authority believes this ambitious goal is achievable through a combination of ongoing reforms, the establishment of the Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares), and the planned introduction of free primary healthcare.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement with private health insurers, the acting Chief Executive of NHIA, Dr. Victor Bampoe, expressed optimism about the path to universal health coverage.
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“Every Ghanaian everywhere should be able to access healthcare without financial hardship. By 2030, we want to guarantee universal health coverage across Ghana. The NHIS already takes care of about 95% of all disease conditions, and with the Mahama Cares initiative and free primary healthcare, we can ensure earlier diagnosis, preventive medicine, and broader access,” he stated.
At the same event, Dr. William Omane-Adjeikum, acting Director of the Private Health Insurance Industry, raised concerns over the activities of some telecommunication companies entering the health insurance space through partnerships. He noted that such products are largely unregulated and could threaten the stability of the private health insurance sector.
“We are seeing telecom operators partnering with certain insurers to roll out products that include health insurance. Many of these products are not registered with the NHIA. The Authority cautions companies against offering unregulated products with any semblance of health insurance,” he warned.
While the NHIA insists it is on track to deliver full coverage by 2030, private sector stakeholders stress that stricter regulation and oversight will be essential to protect the industry and ensure the success of Ghana’s universal health coverage agenda.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem