The Acting Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, announced on Monday, April 14, 2025, that the Authority has disbursed GH₵834 million to healthcare providers across the country. The payments include both outstanding arrears and newly vetted claims.
“Just last week, we cleared GH₵555 million worth of vetted claims,” Dr. Bampoe disclosed at a press briefing in Accra. He added that around GH₵30 to GH₵40 million in claims are still being processed.
Responding to concerns raised by private healthcare providers, Dr. Bampoe clarified that the delays were due to processing timelines and not funding shortages. He reassured stakeholders that all approved claims are being honored within the mandated 90-day payment window.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bampoe said the NHIA plans to significantly increase its claims expenditure. While 40 to 41 percent of the Authority’s 2024 budget went into claims, the target for 2025 is 65 percent, with a goal to reach 70 percent in 2026.
To build public trust in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Dr. Bampoe also addressed the issue of illegal charges at health facilities. A new committee of senior NHIA directors has been formed to investigate and eliminate unauthorized co-payments.
“We are committed to eliminating this issue,” he emphasized. “NHIS cardholders should not have to pay unexpected fees when seeking care at accredited facilities.”
In addition, Dr. Bampoe revealed plans to implement components of the “Mahama Cares” initiative. This includes a funding mechanism for renal treatments and the launch of free primary healthcare services.
Mr. Oswald Essuah-Mensah, Acting Director of Corporate Affairs at the NHIA, urged media outlets to help expose illicit charges being demanded from NHIS beneficiaries. “By working together with providers and the media, we can build a more transparent and accountable healthcare system,” he said.
To further strengthen the Authority’s operations, Dr. Bampoe revealed that internal audits are underway—one focusing on human resources and the other on management information systems. These audits aim to optimize staffing and enhance the NHIA’s technological infrastructure.
According to the Authority, these reforms are essential to improving efficiency and ensuring that more resources are directed toward quality healthcare delivery for Ghanaians.
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