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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has said it is likely to increase premium of subscribers due to the current economic situation.
Last month, the Health Insurance Service Providers Association of Ghana (HISPAG) demanded an increase in premiums from an annual fee of GHc12 to GHc50 to enhance delivery of quality healthcare.
The Executive Director of the association, Frank Torblu had argued that the NHIA could not honour claims of service providers if subscribers do not pay realistic premiums.
He explained that there are various sources of funding for the scheme of which includes the payment of premiums, the national health insurance levy and 2.5% of SSNIT contributions from formal sector workers.
Therefore if the tax element which Ghanaians are already paying is unable to cushion the system, “then we have a problem. It means that we have to increase our premium element to come up a little to support what is there.”
But speaking to Citi News, the head of the NHIA, Nathaniel Otoo said it has become pertinent for the authority to review its prices.
“Premium increases are a factor of the economic situation in the country. What you bought last year for a hundred might not be a hundred this year but being health, we do not want people to be exploited” he said.
“What they charge is heavily regulated and supervised. When there is need for an increase and they ask us to grant them permission and if the case is made we will.”
However, commenting on how much percentage will be added, Mr Otoo said, “as to whether it is going to be a 100 or 200 percent as the basic premium, it is a matter that is subject to evaluation.”
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By: Farida Shaibu/citifmonline.com/Ghana
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