By Maxwell Awumah
Ho, Oct 15, GNA – Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has announced that the government’s decision to uncap the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) has generated GHC9.76 billion in 2025, up from GHC6.52 billion in 2024.
He said the financial boost had enabled the Scheme to clear outstanding arrears and disburse over GHC1.5 billion to healthcare providers over the past seven months, while also making the financing base more predictable.
Speaking through Dr. Kwesi Senanu Djokoto, Deputy CEO in charge of Operations, at the Fifth Annual General Conference of the Private Health Facilities Association of Ghana (PHAFoG), Dr. Bampoe revealed that the Authority was rolling out automated claims processing and e-payment systems to ensure timely reimbursements.
The three-day event was themed: “Unlocking Opportunities: Leveraging Government’s Private Sector Development Policy to Boost Ghana’s Private Health Sector.”
Dr. Bampoe emphasized that the NHIA is pursuing transformative initiatives to strengthen its partnership with PHAFoG.
These include finalizing a new evidence-based tariff structure that accurately reflects the true cost of service delivery. The goal, he said, is to ensure fair compensation for providers while enhancing accountability and efficiency in claims management.
He also highlighted the role of the newly established Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares), which provides a framework for joint investments in healthcare facilities, equipment, and specialist training.
“We encourage private players—clinics, laboratories, pharmacies, and insurers—to explore and expand their service delivery capacity,” he urged.
Dr. Bampoe added that the NHIA had institutionalized stakeholder engagement through public-private dialogue and co-design, allowing private sector input to directly shape benefit package reviews, pricing, and operational policies.
He added that the Authority is committed to enforcing ethical practices and eliminating co-payments, which are illegal charges that erode public trust in the Scheme.
“We commend facilities that have embraced cashless, transparent, and patient-centred service delivery. Compliance protects not only the Scheme but also the integrity of your profession,” he said.
The Chief Executive also announced improvements to the NHIA’s electronic interface for credentialing, alongside other transformative initiatives aimed at deepening healthcare delivery across all levels.
He praised the government’s private-sector development policy, noting that no nation can achieve Universal Health Coverage without a vibrant, trusted, well-equipped, and supported private sector.
Dr. Bampoe pointed out that nearly 30 percent of NHIS-accredited facilities are privately owned, with PHAFoG playing a leading role as an indispensable partner in the national journey toward equitable healthcare for all.
He expressed hope that the conference would mark a new chapter in collaboration: “Where we move from dialogue to delivery, from opportunity to action, and from aspiration to achievement.”
Dr. Bampoe concluded with optimism that collective efforts will strengthen the healthcare system, drive innovation, and secure a healthier, more equitable future for all.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba